accomplishments.

I recently had an epiphany.

To put this in context, I have the ability (either to my benefit or my detriment) to be able to associate similar situations from the present to ones in the past as soon as it happens. With my analytical nature, this leads to me see these past situations in a whole new light taking into account new information and experiences that I've learned from along the way.

A friend of mine made a innocent comment the other day that was negative in nature towards one of my current goals. Something that made my goal seem less important and trivial. I took it in stride but it made me realize the intent behind similar actions that took place a year ago.

My so-called friend at the time would constantly say what a joke my Masters program is and that she would never join it. Sadly, at the time I agreed with her and justified my participation based on my circumstances. However looking back and knowing what I know now, she was jealous (of way more than just my studies, but that's besides the point).There is a small population of graduate students at FIU who have a TAship. I'm one of them. There isn't a large percentage of the general population that can say they had their M.A. degree when they were only 24. I will. I don't say these things to boast, because I am extremely grateful and aware of how blessed I am. However, people who aren't happy with themselves will always try to bring others down to feel better about themselves.

That's the real point of this blog entry. To be proud of you.
To stand up for yourself and your beliefs. To never let someone belittle your dreams, your goals, your ideals, your morals, your choices, or your appearance.
If they do, don't be afraid to speak up. Be tactful, not insulting, but say what you need to say.

Also, don't be afraid to celebrate you. It's always nice when people want to celebrate or congratulate you for achievements and on special occasions, but if you want to go above and beyond, go for it. Whatever the occasion, if you want to celebrate it, you should. There's a SATC episode where one the girls is getting married for a second time and feels it to be inappropriate to make a big deal out of it. Her friends tells her she's being ridiculous to feel that way about her happy situation. I'll be graduating for a second time this month and I felt the same way at first about making a big to-do over another graduation ceremony, but I got over that when I saw that episode again. I've already been making preparations and in less than a month I'll be celebrating this achievement exactly as I want - with family, friends, food, drinks, new outfits, hair and make-up appointments, pictures, and a cruise I've wanted to go on for a loooong time now. Can you tell I'm excited? D-mn straight I am and I've earned it! Woo hoo!!!

Thank you to those who have always encouraged, supported, and openly stated how happy for and proud of me they are. I'm starting to realized these are the only people that matter. 

This is going to be my on my grad cruise! Be jealous on your own!