Sunrise on 27 & The Risks I Took To Get Here

Today marks my 27^th year, which before, I wouldn’t have expected it to mean much. But as I sit in my bed and look through my sloppily written journals and the endless pages of changes since last year, I can honestly say this day means more than any other. Maybe it is because I no longer feel emotionally insignificant, inadequate, or insecure. Or maybe, it is an awareness that I am imperfect and I’m okay with being criticized by others.

This is huge for me.

But here’s the thing, the steps I made during the past 12 months have changed my outlook on the world and fed my once starving soul. These are things I share because I am proud of who I am and the risks I’ve taken to get here, in my favorite place, my own bed. These are the risks I took to fill the emptiness in my heart;

• I stripped the ego (as best as I knew how) and traded what I can only describe as “glitz” and false promises, for truth. In doing so I found simplicity, which is surprisingly rewarding.
• I stopped worshipping the “party” and started worshipping my work; finishing my degree and being an asset at my job.
• I crossed the Bridge of the Gods, walked through The Narrows and explored more miles on my feet than I had since my grandmother passed away, finding peace on natures path again.
• I finished 3 journals front to back, full of poetry, notes of inspiration, and prayers (yes, to God).
• I volunteered. I made a difference in peoples’ lives that couldn’t give me anything in return… only to find out, they gave me everything because they gave me their hearts (a few donuts) and their stories.
• I spent more time with my family doing what we do best, laughing.
• I figured out how to not give a shit (even though I sometimes do), and gained a new skill; Being kind about it.
• I kept myself open to love, despite paralyzing heart-ache, and found that love is everywhere, especially during the vibrant morning sunrise.

And most of all, in my 27^th year, I learned to A D O R E my once broken, bourbon sippin’, brilliant soul.

And that my friends, is worth celebrating. CHEERS.