Caveat: I started this as a journal entry but here we are. enjoy.
Three-quarters of the year is behind me by only a few days, and I have been moving so fast that I should probably remember to stop and reflect on the journey. So here we are. This summer, in particular, held a treasure chest of experiences I've woven into the manuscript of my life. Each chapter is etched with the moments of falling in love; I've been a romantic since I was a single digit. Turn the page, and I'm soaring through the skies; I still need to fill out the application for TSA pre-check. Turn the page and, a thirty-something summer birthday baby, continually discovering the power of self-worth. And now, as I brace myself for the final stretch of 2023, I'm grateful for the blessings and lessons this season has bestowed upon me.
I can't swim…yet, but I love the beach. I wish I had spent more time there these past few months. There's something undeniably magical about the ocean meeting the shore, the sun kissing your skin, and your toes slowly sinking into the sand. As I let the sun kiss my skin, I couldn't help but draw parallels between the tranquility of the beach and the serenity of love. I penned pages in my notes app to later be transferred to my manuscript; please don't ask me if I've done so yet. Just know that I've been inspired.
When I left my job as a high school teacher, I told many colleagues that I had no clue what was next but something good. Fast forward to quarter three, where the good is happening, the travels have been frequent, life experiences plenty, plane aisles welcomed my wanderlust with a side of where's the paycheck, and I gladly followed amidst the clouds and distant horizons. I discovered the beauty of being untethered. At first, it was scary, but I have picked up many stories to keep close to me along life's way in this season.
While skipping coast to coast, I often found myself in conversations with fellow travelers. When asked about my occupation, I confidently replied, "I work in TV and film." This statement was not at all the boast you may or may not think; it was a testament to the progress I've made in my career. I've reached a point where I'm not trying to work in the industry; I am working in it. The subtle shift in my response reflected the growth and determination that have marked this "Something good gotta happen, Lord" year.
I also put into practice some of what I learned as a teacher, the art of asking for what I'm worth, and it wasn't without its share of trepidation. It's easy to underestimate our value, especially in a competitive world. But I've realized that my skills, talents, and dedication are worth every ounce of confidence I can muster. I embraced the discomfort, prayed, and found that the reward exceeded the fear. It's a lesson I'll carry into the final quarter and beyond.
Honestly, far scarier than asking for what you're worth is small talk. I've never wanted to engage in conversations that lead to nowhere, mainly because I am stressed, hoping I say the right lightweight thing, but as my friends jokingly say, "I always have my porch light on" or "Just accept who you are." I understand the value of building connections, however fleeting they may be. It's about finding common ground, sharing smiles, and acknowledging the beauty in the seemingly mundane but knowingly intentional. Taking more time to appreciate the richness of human interaction.
As I continue to reflect on the journey so far, I can't help but acknowledge the highs and lows that have shaped this year. While I haven't always shared the lows openly, they were crucial to my growth. Every time I cried in my car was a stepping stone, a pivot towards what I always knew in my heart. Good things are coming.
With the finish line of the year now in sight, because, let's be honest, Christmas is tomorrow. The lessons I've learned, the strength I've gathered, and the love I've discovered; love that is not necessarily romantic, but my heart is open for that. All of it has prepared me for this final stretch. I look ahead with gratitude and a sense of purpose, ready to embrace more challenges and triumphs that await in the fourth quarter.
As I continue to navigate the ever-unfolding story of my life, a reminder I rap to myself in the bathroom mirror sometimes while doing my skincare routine is I have everything I need to finish. I have to keep moving towards it. That fear is worth every dream I dare to chase, and I'm ready to make the fourth quarter count.