The Little Things

I've been in San Diego for a week, and I'm already incredibly thankful to be here.

(And by here, I mean there. I'm on a train to Fresno... sooo I'm not there, but here... but I mean there... you get it.)

Surrounded by an infinite amount of love and support, I already find myself thinking more clearly... recognizing what really matters to me, and what I actually want from my life. The most important realization that has presented itself is my love for the little things, and my desire for little more. Those precious moments make memories that I will keep forever...

A good friend putting their arms around me, just because...
A random text or phone call, if only to say "I miss you"...
Meeting someone and instantly feeling like family...
Being a small part of something big, yet knowing it matters...

Hell, over the last week, I've been excited just to have a backyard available for Buster, a place to hang my clothes, and three meals a day! Plus, I get to live with people I adore and pursue my dreams, while continually a part of their dreams??? Yeah, I'm doing alright, I'd say! And while there is so much more I would like to achieve, staying grounded and living a moderate lifestyle is something I am not only "okay" with, but actually prefer.

I have no desire to be famous, but would love to perform my music for those around me.
I have no desire to cook professionally, but would love to work on recipes and ideas I have.
I'm not going to become a teacher, but learn and teach from those around me, every day.
I probably won't change the world, but I understand my impact through small gestures.

The thing is, I have so many loves and passions, but the greatest passion I have is people; and those small moments, those brief interactions with them, is what really makes my day. I love putting a smile on someone's face, or giving them advice they'd never thought of... I love to help people, in any way I can, be it changing a life or simply holding the door open. I truly believe if we all focused on the little things, building generous and considerate habits for those around us, the world could actually "become a better place". So often we talk of making the world better, but we are always quick to point the finger at someone else... We tend to shy away from the responsibility, but the fact is: It begins within ourselves.

"I'm starting with the man in the mirror..."

Sound familiar? That song has always meant a lot to me, because it truly encompasses what we all need to learn. Telling someone else how to live their life or what actions to choose is a waste of time. If you really want to change the world, change yourself. Hold the damn door open for someone; use your manners (remember those words, "please" and "thank you"?!); be compassionate, don't judge, and always spread the love. That's what I believe, and I'm sure most of you would agree.

This new journey is my way of beginning the change within myself. I've always tried to be loving towards those around me, but it's time I turned my words into action. So, I'm pursuing volunteer opportunities, protesting the hate in the world, and continuing the love. Always. I begin a 1-week vacation today, coming home to Fresno to see those I truly love; but when I get back to San Diego, everything will change. It's all in my power, it's all within me... and it can start within you. And once it does, it's infectious... those around you feel it, and are motivated to follow suit. That's what I want; to motivate, to inspire, to be inspired.

Always dreaming...
Always striving for more...
Always connected to those around me...

Just beginning to live, continually learning, and never done loving.