Expedition Orlando 2: When Reality Hits

With any move there is a sheer ton of things going on, not to mention minor chaos to boot. For the past couple weeks, I've been hacking through my to do list like a lone Sith through Clone Troopers. It wasn't until a quiet dinner at one of my fave Asian buffets, that I had a moment of Zen...and a chance to breathe.

I sat there in a tranquil, peaceful state, mind nowhere in particular, eating snow crab legs, when it started sinking in, I really am leaving Alabama next week to follow my big dream. Something I really wanted with my heart's desire, and it was actually happening, and soon. There was a serenity and warmth I'd not felt in a very long time. There was also awe and wonder. Oh, and the crab was delicious too.

Now, this might not sound like that big of a deal, but until you experience wanting something with every ounce of your being, then actually getting it, it's difficult to relate. This is a dream shot, a clean slate, and so many more indescribable things, particularly spiritual and next level. It's the beginning of realizing and living up to potential felt for so very long inside, but always held just out of reach. The gravity of each choice is immense. It's an exciting and scary time in some ways. It's also a welcome time to slow down and grow gracefully, not so much under duress, as has been the norm all these years. Yes, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, I'm feeling quite a lot.

I vowed to improve myself, to make better choices, and to exceed my potential, and finally put to rest some of the things that have weighed on me for many years. Now I have the tools, mindset, and battle experience to do so. This summer, particularly all the wonderful people I met, old and new, helped give me better tools, mindset, etc, through some unique opportunities. I'm very grateful to them for their time, encouragement, support, humor, teaching, wisdom, and guidance. I'll miss many of them very much and will keep up the bonds and good will forged during the summer.

To those, and many others, whose shoulders I've stood upon, my deepest thanks for helping me grow. You've given a great gift. Thank you. :)