t w e n t y t h r e e

On this day, twenty-three years ago a beautiful baby girl was born into this world. That would be me! (:

A lot of people would say that the 23^rd birthday is irrelevant. Twenty-three is just a number and nothing special happens. You can already drive, already enlist, already drink, and are already considered an adult. All the while, being a few years shy of a clean driving record and an AARP. By 23, some are on their way down an isle, some are starting or already have a family, some are still trying to find their way out of the local bar, and some are still trying to figure out what they what for their lives.

I’d love to say I’m no different. In some ways I’m not. But in other ways, I’m aged far beyond my years. I’ve seen more than a few, I’ve lived more than some, and I’ve experienced more emotional turmoil than many ever will.

Let me disclaim myself by saying, I’m not writing this post for pity or to downplay anyone else’s experiences. But this is my testament to how far I’ve come. I've overcome the loss of my best friend. I've endured the tragic loss of my fiancé. I'm dealing with debilitating migraines. I've graduate the University of Georgia. I am only a few months shy of completing my Masters degree and starting my career. 

I've learned of life's challenges the hard way. I've learned that grief cannot be rushed. I've learned that some people are better left in the past. I've learned that I'm far better off alone than with someone who doesn't treat me like a queen. I've learned that family will not always have your back, but God always will. 

Twenty-three, for me, is just the beginning.