mulan.

When I was like 8 years old I did this dance to the song reflections from Mulan. It was super inspirational and artistic. We spun around holding cosmetic mirrors and stared deep into our own eyes.  It was beauty. There is nothing like staring deep into your own eyes while wearing sequins. But, you know, I think there was something in it. In the words of Christina Aguilera, I must ask,
who is that girl i see staring straight, back at me? More reflective words have never been uttered. It's all very cheesy, believe me, I understand. But as this semester and school year come to a close, I can't help but reflect on myself and the tremendous lessons I've learned. I really feel like a different person. So I do believe it's my time to put on my sequin dress (I hope it still fits) and take a look at myself.

I've learned so much. I've come so far.
I've learned that people will surprise you... And I mean in a good way. I've been amazed at the goodness around me. My expectations are always exceeded.
I've learned that I am capable of more than I would have given myself credit for.
I've learned to appreciate life in all it's frailty-to take every opportunity that comes my way and to try and learn new things. Learning to ski may well be one of my most cherished fruits of the year. No... not cherished fruits... that sounds super lame. Why do these cheesy odd lines plague me?
      I've learned a lot about fear. What a fiend fear can be. Slowly over the course of the year, I've learned to replace fear and trepidation with something a lot more peace giving and worthwhile-faith. I'm so overwhelmingly HAPPY that my faith is deeper than ever. I've come to understand that faith takes work. What I've learned for myself (finally!) is that faith isn't about asking- it's about giving it your all and knowing that somehow, your all will be enough. That everything will work out. I'm so happy to say that I have strong beliefs, and that this year has really given me a chance to understand my fears and have countless prayers answered. I can't find a word to describe how AWESOME/GREAT/perfect/MAGNIFICENT/SPLENDID/beautifulydelightfulyDIVINE this is.
 I've learned about persistence. About the satisfaction of sticking things out.
I've learned that nobody is perfect- and that is OKAY.
I've learned to appreciate good friends.
I've learned that I ramble a lot and that this post should probably be continued another day...