As of tomorrow, it will have been two weeks since I landed back in NY after my "whirlwind tour", as it's come to be called, of the United States. It's interesting looking at myself as I was a mere two months ago versus now. I have changed. Substantially.
When I left in September, I was a boy. I have returned a man. In that time, I've lost many friends, gained some new ones, and strengthened/re-affirmed many more. What I really feel I gained was maturity.
Looking back, I realize some things that I've done over the years and how they came back to bite me. This humbled me.
I was helped by many people along my way. This taught me a whole new level of gratitude.
I met many people and heard about many situations that made mine pale in comparison. This taught me empathy and appreciation for what I did have.
I was forced to live, for awhile, out of a duffel bag. I had nights I almost went hungry. This taught me what really matters in life.
Since I've returned, I've realized I talk less, listen more, and take far less for granted. I have never been good at learning lessons "the easy way". I can't say that I would have chosen what happened to me if I'd been told ahead of time what the past two months would entail, but I am proud to say that I gained a lot from it and that I'm a better person for it.
Now it's time to rebuild my life. I have made many mistakes, and have learned from them. For the next few months, I'm going to focus on what's important, rebuild my finances, mend my broken friendships, and become the man that so many people have told me I can be.
For those of you who have stuck by me, thank you. I'm not always easy to handle, a quick study, but I have a heart of gold and care about people and especially my friends and family.
As 2015 comes closer and closer to a close, I eagerly await 2016 and what it will bring for
me.
And today, for the first time in a long time, I felt truly happy.
I also have three jobs currently. I've started at one, start training at another Tuesday and will hopefully start the other soon. I also have met a girl local to here and we've been on two dates so far and there's definitely something there. I appreciate everyone's help and things are finally turning around!
I also have a car that I'm currently using that I should be purchasing in the next few months!
Thanks,
A.J.