My journey with Odyssey has come to an end. I'm pretty bummed about it, but duty calls and I must answer. I still remember my first article I wrote four months ago and the heart-warming responses I received. I loved that feeling of making a difference in someone else's life through my writing and I will always keep that with me. As it says in my bio, "I don't write for you to love me, I write for you to feel me." That quote sums up just about everything I do in my life. Whether it's writing, dancing, acting, what have you. I don't do it because I want to people to idolize or glorify me; I do it for the sake of the art and to make them feel something because that's what it's all about: staying true to yourself and telling what's in your heart.
To all of the people who have read my articles week after week: thank you. Honestly. I appreciate you and your support more than you know. I hope I was able to touch your life or heart in some way. I hope I was able to help those of you find your voice who had been previously silenced. There are some last reminders I'd like to leave you with. Your life truly is what you make of it. Don't take any second of it for granted. Just think of how lucky you are to be living your life. Remember to focus your time, energy, and emotion on the people and things that make you happy. Know your worth. Know when to walk away from toxic relationships and don't you ever settle for less than you deserve, in any aspect of your life. Know yourself and be complete on your own. You don't need ANYONE to make your life whole. You are enough. You're feelings are always valid. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. People in your life will come and go. If they go, let them. Remember what they taught you, but don't beg them to stay if they don't want to. If they stay, cherish them. And lastly, always dream big. Always always always.
I value each and every one of you. You are all beautiful and smart and talented. Don't ever feel like you have nothing to offer this world. You do. The world will never have another one of you. You are one of a kind and no one can ever take that away from you. Thank you for allowing me to share my heart with you. My articles will always be here if you need them. It has been an absolute pleasure.
One last time, "I don't write for you to love me, I write for you to feel me." I hope I've succeeded.
Love always,
Joe