I came to Chicagoland a little over a
year ago now in full pursuit of what God had in store for me. I was
just trying to go where He was leading me. And I don't think that I
mistook that calling. I think there are many many reasons He led me
to Chicago. I made friendships I never would have otherwise, and
that will last forever. I was in a relationship that, at the end of
it, forced me to realize even those who I thought would have the
power to break me, failed to do so, because I'm stronger than the
betrayal. And in that, have learned more about myself and my
resiliency than I ever thought imaginable.
I'm learning that God's will sometimes
just reveals itself just a little at a time. Back in July, my niece
was born, and I was reminded of how amazing aunthood can be. I
obviously had already known that with Grant, but when I got to hold
Brooke, I remembered all of the days I spent with Grant when he was
that age, and then realized I would miss those days with Brooke.
Then, about a month later, I unfortunately was not able to make
Grant's 3rd Birthday. I've done long-distance
relationships, and they're tough sometimes...but long-distance
aunthood...it started wearing me down. I had already felt strongly
before that point that I would not be living in Chicagoland for the
rest of my life, so when the desire to leave made its first
appearance in my head, it didn't take long for it to ignite a fire in
my heart to pursue that, and to figure out where I wanted to
go......home.
So with that all being said, this can
serve as my formal announcement that I will be moving HOME...THIS
WEEK. Because I apparently want to give myself a stressed-induced
illness. And also because I accepted a job with TriZetto Provider
Solutions, and my start date is October 24.
I cannot express into words how excited
I am. I am beyond elated to be close to my family, my friends, my
students, and St. Louis. I'll be moving into an apartment in
downtown St. Louis, and be doing things for myself that I have been
putting off for whatever reason, or whatever person.
To my Chicagoland friends, I cannot
thank you enough for your friendship, your words of wisdom, and the
memories [past, present, and ones to come]. I will be back to visit!
I promise.
Lindsay and Bre, you are your own
separate category. Thank you for being my spirit animals, and my
Chicagoland people. I cannot imagine how lack-luster my social life
would have been had you not been in my life. And Lindsay, I know you
hate St. Louis...but you love me, so you WILL be visiting. Bre, keep
your resilience as strong as your love for everyone. Although I will
be four hours away, I will always be here for you. I love you both.
To the moon.
To the Yusuf's...your love and
hospitality that you bestowed unto me is something I cannot express
enough gratitude for. Asad and Mariam, thank you for welcoming me
into your home, and accepting me as part of your family for the past
year. Nani Ma, thank you for your wisdom, influence, love, and
support for literally ANYTHING I try to do. You truly are family to
me, and my leaving will never change that. Laila, Adam, and Isa...you
three have taught me so much about growing up, being a child,
discipline, patience, dedication, and love. There will not be a day
that will go by that I will not miss your laughter, smiles, and even
your cries.
So, so long Naperville...it's been
real.
I'm going home!
