I think today I will list out some individual experiences I am grateful for.
Let's begin, shall we?
I am grateful for:
- A college education. Seriously, I am so glad that I chose to attend a university, go straight through and get my Bachelor's Degree, and never once changed my focus. No side tracking, no huge hiccups, just get 'er done and be done with it. It has opened doors for me that would have been otherwise closed. There is still a possibility I will go for a Masters. Just taking my time about it. A college education taught me how to stick something out, and in the end, it will pay off. While my friends from high school were off making money, I was struggling in the books. Though their 14$ an hour jobs seemed like a lot back them, I have sense waaaaay surpassed that, all because I took the time to invest in me.
- Ballet. I am incredibly thankful to my parents for taking me to see the Nutcracker when I was a young child. I fell in love with the Sugarplum fairy and wanted to dance that role. My parents enrolled me in ballet and I found my one natural talent. I felt such peace when I danced. I still do. Granted, I'm not in pointe shoes or twirling in tutus, but that muscle memory is there, and I ache to do it again. Ballet taught me discipline, grace, balance (well.. at least in heels I have it. Don't ask me to walk flat footed.. I trip all over myself.)
- Theater. I am also super happy my mom pushed me to audition for my first play when I was in the 5th grade. I was incredibly shy, and after doing a few shows, and taking a few theater classes, I began this super - outgoing person. (Which, we all know, I am not... but I know how to "act" like I am.) Theater also taught me the art of observation. I can read a situation/group of people very easily and adapt accordingly. It has helped me immensely in my life.
- Love. You know what - I actually still believe in love. I also live by the philosophy, "Better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all." Everyone that has come into my life, I have learned something from them. I am grateful that certain people took the time, spent a portion of their lives with me, and left a lasting impression. I am better for it, I'm sure.
- Tough bosses. I have worked for some tough people. Seriously tough. My news director, back in the day, was no joke. She had a reputation for kicking ass and taking names. My immediate folks at the past two nonprofits were a "take no prisoners" type of women. I am glad I got to work with such sharp, tough women. It made my skin thick, and in turn, not a whole lot will get to me in the corporate setting. I feel confident when I sit across from a CEO in a board room, and I carry myself accordingly. Yes, I laugh and cut up, but when push comes to shove - I get it done.
- Loss. I loss my ability to have children. I lost a job I loved. I lost a home I loved. I lost my dignity. I lost my husband. I almost lost my hope. Note - almost. What did I gained? Amazing perspective, an incredible amount of patience, and the knowledge that no matter what is thrown at me, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, I got this - and I will rise.
I am sure there is so much more, but I think this is a good start. Things that pop to mind. Education - Ballet - Theater - Love - Work - and Loss. It makes me who I am.
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