“If I could tell the world just one thing
It would be that we’re all OK
And not to worry ’cause worry is wasteful
And useless in times like these.”
Ever since hearing Hands by Jewel on Pandora last night, this first stanza of the song has been on my mind. I think it has stuck with me, especially the line “It would be that we’re all OK,” because it relates to what I’ve been feeling recently. Though I know that writing my book/sharing my story is something I feel I need to do, some days it’s hard. It’s hard to remind myself how far I’ve come. Since I’m focusing on a lot of the hard stuff I faced in the beginning of my book, it’s a little to see the good stuff at this point. I have to constantly remind myself to look around at the life that I’m currently living to show myself how happy I am.
Truthfully, I haven’t been generally this happy in a long time. It was definitely the right choice to transfer to Asheville. I’ve made amazing friends that mean a lot to me, and I’ve been able to do some “soul-searching.” I also just feel better about myself. I feel like I’m finally able to start truly living my life. That sounds weird, but as I’m discovering new things, I’m also discovering the things that make me feel good about myself. For example, back in October, I got a new wardrobe. I’ve never been one to really care much about my appearance, but getting a new wardrobe lead to a big change in my personality in general. Since I’ve started to care about how I look, I’ve felt happier. Also, I’ve slowly started to come out of my shell and not be scared to experience new things. In November, I was introduced to restorative yoga and meditation. It’s helped me realize the importance of having time to myself and the benefits of trying to live in the present moment as much as I can. However, if I wasn’t in Asheville, I don’t know if I would feel as comfortable trying new things. It’s just nice to be among the strangeness. As many stickers say: “Keep Asheville Weird.” Now, it’s February, and I’m so grateful for all the amazing friends I’ve made thus far. It’s been a while since so many people have simply accepted me for who I am without question, and it is seriously one of the most wonderful feelings in the world. Knowing that the people around me love me for exactly who I am is amazing.
“Would you not like to be
Sitting on top of the world with
Your legs hanging free.”
-Dave Matthews Band
lifeintheblueridges 
Beautiful post. Your ability to embrace LIFE, in all its forms (‘good’ or ‘bad’) shows that you are never not ok, and that beyond the pain (or even inside of it) is a beautiful, thriving life. 🙂
Thanks Jill. That means SO much to me! 🙂
You have “an Old Soul.” You’re a young woman with the soul wisdom of someone much, much older. (My daughter is like this too – you remind me of her a little.) You are going to go far and do great things in this world.
Thank you so much Katrina. You just made my day! 🙂
I love Jewel, especially the song Hands, and love love love Dave Matthews Band!
Love this post. 🙂
Thanks Brianna. I love DMB too. I got the chance to see them live last November, and it was incredible!
You’re so welcome! I saw them a couple years ago and it will forever be my favorite concert ever! I’m so excited… I’m seeing them in May! I’m counting down the days.
It’s wonderful to have people accept you for you. I’m a bit overweight (ok bit isn’t the right word LOL) but my friend is skinny as a rail and I know she will never judge me – those are the types of friends to keep around!
I’m super obsessed with jewel and she has a song for almost any feeling. I loved this post as well. Thank you for reminding me about hands. Wonderful.
For some reason I didn’t realize you went to unca. I was just in Asheville a month ago. Love it.
First of all, Jewel can get me weeping at almost any time. Powerful, shimmering voice and emotion behind it.
Secondly, unconditional acceptance is the greatest of gifts we can give or receive. I’m sure of it.