There's nothin' you can do if you're too scared to try...

Life post-graduation is exactly what I anticipated, nothing I expected, and more than I hoped for. I have passed through 10,000 valleys and grown miles. I feel comfortable in my skin and confident in joining the ranks of the strong women I have immersed myself in lately. With each new morning, I am breathing in air much different than I am used to. Here is what they never tell you: of the fear that will harvest in you with each new hurdle, the exhiliration that comes after every new small triumph, the way you never before analyzed every word in your family member's summation of the day, the way home suddenly morphs into something far less tangible, how when you pack up your things and move to a city you will miss the stars.

Let me speak of my proximity to the ocean. One singular mile. Although the mountains shaped my identity, the ocean is solidifying it. Stretching my limbs in the sand and letting the white noise of the waves drown my worries is something I wouldn't trade right now. I feel completely in my element here and my phobia of solitude is somewhat cured. I need it. I need the time to sit and gather my many gratitudes.

Do I miss you? Yes. More than you could ever know. But you as well as I know that it is not without reasons. Who knows why we had so many roadblocks, but I'm sure that it was the right timing.

So, June, you are here. I fell unprepared for your visit. Please forgive my misgivings and my mess, but this summer has the potential to wreak chaos. I'm sure you understand, I mean you did sneak up on me. I do remember you, though. On your eleventh day, you brought my beautiful niece to me, forever changing my ideas on virtues. For that, I am indebted to you. When the timing is right, I will give you proper thanks.

For now, I rest my eyes.