Thursday, January 19, 2012

Me, Myself, and I.

I am here. I am living for only me.

Does that make me selfish or smart?

Having someone to understand me and motivate me.. or simply to call me on my bullshit.. doesn't seem so important anymore. Not if it means never meeting 'rock bottom' or experiencing defeat. I'm not looking for someone to sugarcoat things. I'm not looking for someone to catch me before I plummet down into some unforeseen abyss. This is an adventure I have yet to experience on my own and in an effort to re-familiarize myself with myself as its own entity, I think it's necessary to maintain the support system that I have, without depending on it entirely. I think it's necessary to act without thinking. I think it's necessary to make mistakes and learn my own lessons so that I can grow and mature as a person. I don't need someone to stand by me close, protecting me from the world, I need someone to understand that the relationship that I have with myself is the one that needs the most time and dedication. Until I truly understand what I expect for myself, from myself, I will never truly be able to understand what I expect for myself from others.

I enjoy being alone, and I'm not scared of being lonely, because I never truly am. For that, I am grateful. I enjoy being alone, because it encourages self-sufficiency and independence. I am not a recluse, by any definition of the word, but I do enjoy being with my own thoughts and feelings from time to time. After all, who is going to be able to understand my own thoughts and feelings better than me?

So again, I ask, does living for oneself make them appear to be selfish, or intelligent? I think the overall concept is difficult to understand, because we are creatures of a social nature. We are raised in schools to socialize us, go on play dates to make friends, join clubs to find friends with similar interests, and eventually we date people to find who we are compatible with and the qualities we look for in a long-term partner. I'm not against this. In fact, I support relationships with people..whether it's a friendship, familial relationship, work relationship, or romantic relationship. I just feel that we are taught of the importance of the relationships listed above, and are rarely ever reminded of the most important relationship of all. The one with ourselves.

-Satisfy my Soul

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Frozen Alabaster

Good afternoon my loves! It's a rather rainy day here in New York.. I'm currently sitting in a Starbucks on the corner of 17th and 1st.. I imagine I'll be here for the next couple of hours. I'm heading back to my beloved Toronto today.. I fear I'll have to break the news that I've fallen in love with another city. I hope he doesn't take it too hard..

Tuesday I arrived at La Guardia Airport at 8am. I spent the first couple of hours exploring the neighbourhood around my hotel at 17th and 3rd. This Starbucks is actually where I began this adventure. Yay for adventures! After wandering for a couple of hours, I made my way back to the hotel to await the arrival of Elmer, who was to be meeting me at 11am. The check-in time at the hotel wasn't until 3pm, but because the receptionist saw that I was lingering awkwardly in the corridor, he had my room prepared early. I dragged all of my luggage to the 7th floor (thank goodness for elevators..). My room was very small. Elmer compared it to a hotel room in Paris. Truly it was all I needed - a space of my own.

The view from my window was lovely. There was a quaint park to the left, and a beautiful clock tower and church to the right. I'm truly a nerd when it comes to architecture. New York is a dream come true for artsy, architecture-loving nerds like me. I cannot wait to indulge in the architectural delights of Europe in the future!





After Elmer arrived, we spent the day meeting with agencies in an effort to find one to represent me in New York. It needed to be an agency that I loved, that also loved me. It's difficult to be excited about an agency that isn't excited about you. There were two agencies that I met with that I got a fantastic vibe from. One I had met with before and the other was brand new to me. I fell in love with both of them, for different reasons.

The waiting game is not a game I am fond of, nor is it a game of which I am particularly skilled. In fact, I think it's accurate to say I'm one of the most impatient individuals known to man, so waiting for anything, particularly the future of my career, is not something I thrive in. I booked another night at my hotel, and spent yesterday exploring the city with my lovely tour guide, Amanda Laine. Amanda is such a sweet, down-t0-earth girl, despite all of her successes within this industry. We walked the width of the island, having lunch with her friend at Chelsea Market. She took me to SoHo, on the subway, and finally back to her apartment building, which had a spectacular view of the city.

On the left, she has a stunning view of the Empire state building and Ground Zero, and on the right she has a breathtaking view of the Brooklyn bridge. Seeing all of the old, cobblestone side streets, historical landmarks, and ancient architecture really made me excited to eventually end up in this city.

After the 'tour', I headed back to the hotel to get ready to later meet Amanda and her friends for dinner. We headed to Westside Tavern before heading to Koi, a beautiful Japanese restaurant where the owner treated us to dinner. I had seaweed salad and grilled tofu and veggies, drizzled in a ginger sauce. It was fantastic. I felt truly fortunate and appreciative to have had this experience. After dinner, we headed to Avenue. Though I had to get up relatively early this morning to have another meeting with one of the agencies I fell in love with, I knew that I had to experience a night out on the town in New York City..even if it was brief.

All in all, my couple of days in New York were definitely memorable. I am taking a Greyhound bus back to Toronto tonight, and will arrive bright and early tomorrow morning. I'm sad to be leaving this city that I've only just started to get to know, but thankfully I won't be gone for long ;)

Thank you for sticking with me on this journey, friends. Your constant love and support means more to me than you could know. Stay tuned!

Satisfy my Soul

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Another Alien on Broadway

Hello my lovely friends!

I am currently sitting in the Buffalo airport..approximately an hour and 45 minutes too early. I'm not complaining though! This time to myself is giving me the opportunity to be productive via blogging, emailing, Facebook-ing, and journaling. I've never seen an airport so empty! I need to fly out of Buffalo more often, clearly.

My mom gave me a hug after walking me to security and at first I didn't think she was going to release me from her grasp. I almost didn't want her to. I've never flown by myself before and I hadn't realized how much security and comfort her embrace had provided me with throughout the years. But, I'm here. I'm thrilled to be here..and I'm so excited to see what today has in store.

I've been to NYC once before.. but it was in grade 11 and for a school trip.. so it was chaperoned, very planned and touristy - a travel style that will not work if I'm to uphold any part of my resolution of not planning and living spontaneously.

There's a loud saxophone playing over the speakers here.. The Black Keys isn't quite loud enough to cover it up, so it's creating an awkward remix of sorts. Oh well. I suppose that's all I've got right now. Hopefully the hotel has wifi so I can blog again tonight. We shall see though. In the mean time, pray that my plane doesn't crash, and I'll pray that you all are having a wonderful day in class, at internships, work, lounging, etc.

-Satisfy my Soul

Monday, January 2, 2012

2011: A reflection

2011 was very much a journey of self-discovery and self-love for me. I was tested by a variety of trials and tribulations that I can now appreciate as things that have only made me a stronger person. I was also tested by a lot of things emotionally. At one point, I found myself faced with a situation that required me to make a rather important decision. This wasn't a decision I took lightly. I sought a variety of opinions from the people who are closest to me - the people whose opinions I trust and value the most. There were a lot of mixed thoughts circulating around; I didn't want to disappoint anyone. Eventually I came to the realization that this wasn't a decision that could be owned by anyone other than me.

For those of you who know me well, you know I'm about as indecisive as a squirrel crossing the road. 2011 was filled with situations that didn't always allow for my naturally indecisive nature. In fact, I was forced to make a lot of split-second, yet solidified decisions. I think that living a spontaneous life is always exciting; however, I also think it is incredibly challenging. I spent a great deal of time with people who helped me appreciate the spontaneity of life and for those people, I am extremely grateful.

I learned a lot about myself over the last year. I learned that I am strong, capable, and ready to leave the cozy box I call 'home' in favor of adventure. I learned that the relationship an individual has with him/herself is the most important and loving relationship, and all other relationships seem to fall together when you aren't depending on the love of another person to feel good about yourself. I learned that everyone is flawed and that's why we are all so unique and beautiful. I learned that it isn't fair to hold someone with poor balance on a pedestal; we seem to be a lot more disappointed when these people fall down. I've learned that the people we want are not necessarily the people we need, but who's to know if you never try? I've learned that 'why?' requires a much more difficult answer than 'why not?' and that hard work most definitely pays off. I think the most important lesson I learned in 2011 is that it’s okay to be scared as long as this fear doesn’t rule one’s life.

I don’t make resolutions, because I’m well aware of my inability to keep them. However, in 2012 I will continue to live in the present, focus on the important things and less on the trivial things, say ‘yes’ as much as possible, and continue to learn more about myself and the world around me.

I hope you all had a wonderful time bringing in the new year and that you use 2012 for new beginnings, new opportunities, and renewed passions. Cheers, friends.

Satisfy my Soul

Saturday, December 17, 2011

To the graduating class of 2012..

I’m fortunate enough to have had the most amazing year of my life (to date) in 2011. I truly am appreciative in knowing that there are so many people who love and support me; I cherish them more than they could possibly know.

With my last week of school officially behind me, we begin our journey into the daunting ‘real world’. 2011 was a year of self-love and self-knowledge for me. But this is not a reflection of this past year – that comes later ;)

I remember being ridiculously intimidated when I first began the PR program at Humber. I was straight out of high school – one of the youngest in my class. I was quite a lot shyer then, than I am now, which made meeting people quite a bit difficult for me. Spencer, you were the first one to talk to me! I suppose I sort of clung to you, Eugene, Sarah, Emily for a while after that. I’m thrilled that I had the opportunity to get to know you all better and party with you on several different occasions. You are some of the sweetest and most genuine people I’ve ever had the opportunity of meeting. You’re kind-hearted and dedicated and I truly value all of the support and friendship you’ve provided me with over the last 2 ½ years.

I’m not a trusting person and the relationships that I do build, I build slowly and with care. It is these genuine friendships that I value so dearly. Allyson, Melissa, and Sean, you have contributed so much to my post-secondary experience. Sean, I’m so thankful that we had the opportunity to work together at Humber Students’ Federation. I know that we wouldn’t be nearly as close as we are now had we not been given that opportunity. You’re one of my biggest support systems and are always willing to listen to what I have to say without judgment. I value your opinion and your advice a lot more than I value my own at times. Thank you for being hilarious, sweet, compassionate, and honest. Your sincerity and your passion will take you so far and I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more. Our friendship is one that I will take with me as I move forward and I hope you do the same.

Allyson! You befriended me first year for our very first group project. You saw me at my worst (on several occasions), encouraged me when I was at my best, and pushed me to succeed. You’re hilarious, stubborn, intelligent, thoughtful, and destined to succeed. You keep me on my toes and I always look forward to hearing your adventures. A lot of the laughs I experienced over the last 2 ½ years, I experienced with you. For example:

Jennifer: What’s the first thing you think of when you think of Remembrance Day? *points at me*
Me: Remembrance.

And…

Melissa: I like your lipstick today.
You: ..I’m not wearing lipstick..

I think this program has allowed you to find your calling.
…as a barista at Starbucks! …I kid. I know you’re going to be so successful at whatever you choose to do and I can’t wait to hear about your adventures as you begin this new chapter in your life. I’m going to miss you, but I know that we’ll stay in touch as we move forward to bigger and better things.

Melissa! First off, I would like to begin by saying that I still have your PUMA bag. Awkward. When I see you before I leave, I shall give that to you :P Moving on! In addition to loving your style and hair, I truly value the friendship and support you’ve given me over the duration of this program. There were some group projects that I don’t think I could’ve survived had you not been there for me to vent to, or provide me with a source of sanity. You’re funny, compassionate, intelligent, and tenacious. You’re going to do so well in this industry. The stories that you always have to share with me bring such joy to my life. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so hard. You’re one of my closest friends and I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through the program without you. In fact, had it not been for your ‘Alyssa, I need you to start this!’ I probably would’ve put off Annette’s final assignment until the morning of. Haha. I can’t wait to hear about all of your adventures as you enter your internship in the ‘real world’!

I could not be more thankful to have experienced the last couple of years with everyone. Thank you so much for your friendship, your encouragement, and your constant support. I know that you will all be successful in whatever area of public relations you decide to pursue. If you decide you want to be a TTC driver, I’m sure you’ll succeed in that, too. I’ll be even more supportive if you let me abuse the system and use the TTC for my favourite price: free ;)

I look forward to following your careers, creeping you on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and I hope you will all stay in touch as you move forward to make your mark on the world.

So, friends, here’s to the years behind us, the years ahead of us, and the friendships and memories I could never forget.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Growing Up.

“Lollipops turn into cigarettes. The innocent become jaded. Homework goes in the trash. Mobile phones are being used in class. Detention becomes suspension. Soda becomes vodka. Bikes become cars. Kisses turn into sex. Remember when getting high meant swinging on the playground? When ‘protection’ mean wearing a helmet? When the worst things you could get from boys were cooties? Dad’s shoulders were the highest place on earth and mom was your hero? Your worst enemies were your siblings..race issues were about who ran the fastest – war was only a card game? The only drug you knew was cough medicine and wearing a skirt didn’t make you provocative? The most pain you felt was when you skinned your knees, and goodbyes only meant until tomorrow? And we couldn’t wait to grow up..”

This may be true.. but why does growing up have to be viewed in such a negative light? What about all of the opportunities growing up provides us with? So, with the Christmas season coming up, exams wrapping up, and the real world looming in the distance, the stubborn Generation Y - born - Aries in me retaliates with the following:

Forks turn into chopsticks. The inexperienced turn into the wise. Homework becomes the piece of work that could land you a job. Mobile phones prevent you from getting lost. Detention doesn't exist. Pop is something we rely on to keep us awake, or mix with our favourite alcohol. Bikes become the environmentally-friendly way to travel. Kisses turn into first loves and life lessons. To some, 'getting high' still means swinging on the playground... When 'protection' means having knowledge that the world is scary, but that it's still possible to feel safe. When the best thing you can get from boys is commitment and genuine emotion. Dad's shoulders carry the weight of the world and mom is still there to wipe our tears and kiss our 'boo-boos'. You outgrow your 'worst enemies.' Race issues are slowly being overcome. War provides opportunity for change. The drugs we know now can save lives. Skirts can be classy and professional. The most pain you felt is when you let yourself down, and 'goodbye' is simply having the courage to move on.

So as I approach the new year, I do so with positive thoughts, a calm mind, and a confident attitude. The future provides opportunity. "If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. No one said this would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it."

-Satisfy my Soul

Sunday, November 27, 2011

HEY WORLD.

Why hello friends!
It's been quite a while since I've updated anything.. I've been far too busy with work, school, and sleeping. Sleeping has become my naughty mistress (in male form?). Ahhhh. I sneak off to him whenever I can.

There are a lot of exciting things happenings in my life! In approximately three weeks, I'll be done all of my in-class FOREVER. Well.. unless I decide to further pursue education in the future.. in which case, TEMPORARILY! ..It doesn't quite have the same drama associated with it, but who needs drama in their lives anyways? Not I. In addition to finishing school and moving back home until January (which I'm ecstatic about, for those of you who are the people I care so much about back home), I'm going to be facing a few other adventures in the new year.

Those who are closest to me know what I'm referring to, and the rest will become more aware when the time draws near. I don't want to jinx anything just yet! I'm so excited. Though I've doubted my decisions on occasion, I think the only reason I've been hesitant to take on these new challenges is because I was so set in the 'life plan' that I developed a couple of summers ago.
I wanted to do my internship in New Zealand with Ogilvy PR. While I was there, I was going to take my TESSL certificate online and then move to Thailand to teach English as a second language to young business professionals. Eventually I wanted to move back and start my own PR firm, start my own not-for-profit organization, and then come back and teach as a professor at Humber.

What can I say? I had a lot of time on my hands and I knew exactly what I wanted to see my life become. I still plan on accomplishing several of these things, but I'm not so set in my ways anymore. A few people have entered my life who have helped teach me that it's okay to be intimidated by the future and by change, as long as I am equally as elated by it. I've been shown that living spontaneously is more exciting. I've learned that it's okay to need people; it doesn't make me any less independent. In fact, having the ability to admit that I do need people may make me vulnerable, but it also makes me strong.

At this point, I'm just interested in seeing where the next few months take me. I'll try to update more frequently as time go on. Once school is done and I move back home, I'll have a lot more time on my hands.

Good luck with exams and have fun entering the holiday season! (Am I getting ahead of myself? :P)

-Satisfy my Soul