Once your birthday is over and the celebration comes to an end, we all have that moment when we reflect on what’s happened in our lives within the past year. Turning 22 this week is pretty surreal; it feels like just yesterday I was kicking and screaming when my parents dropped me off at preschool. When I was little, I remember looking at people who are my age now in awe of everything that came with being an adult. Being an “adult” now, I definitely have my moments where I wish I was five-years-old again, when my biggest problem was having to decide which Barbie I wanted to play with next. But truthfully, growing up does have its perks, too.
Thinking back, 21 was undoubtedly one of the best years of my life. For starters, there was getting accepted and going away to my dream school. I spent two and a half years after high school in community college, and while it was one of the greatest decisions I’ve ever made, my 18-year-old self couldn’t help but wish sometimes that she was going away to school and experiencing the ultimate college experience. Well, this past year I’ve become a firm believer in good things coming to those who wait. Just because something doesn’t happen when you want it to, doesn’t mean it’s never going to come.
Since I was a youngin', I’ve had my mind set on becoming a writer. I’m well aware of the challenges and competition that come with wanting to pursue this career, but when you love something so much, those challenges become more of a driving force rather than a sign to give up. I’ve had my fair share of times where I thought I wasn’t good enough; there are always going to be bumps in the road. But this year renewed my sense of pride for what I do when I was welcomed into the Odyssey family. Being given the chance to enhance my skills while sharing what I’m most passionate about on such a large scale has been an opportunity for which I’m eternally grateful.
Being 21 has also taught me a lot about choosing wisely who you spend your time with. I’ve crossed paths with many people in my lifetime; some good, some not-so-good. However, learning from personal experiences this year I’ve come to realize that when you’re put into tough situations, the ones who stick behind you, no matter the circumstances, no matter how large the distance may be, are the ones you should hang on to.
As we get older, our lives are opened to so many more opportunities and responsibilities; some of us may be afraid of this idea, some may be excited, some may be both. Nevertheless, I’ve learned to never take anything for granted. I’ve lost, I’ve gained, I’ve failed, I’ve achieved. A lot can change within a year and if the remainder of my life has as much to offer as this past year did, then I’m excited to take on the rest of this crazy little roller coaster.
