An End to a Beautiful Beginning

Tulalip Bay, WA

     This is my last day working in Grand Rapids, MI. Yes, I realize the last time I posted I was in Seattle, WA and in between there I was in Sacramento and Stockton, CA. My life has been on the fast track of busy and stressful all at once. It has all been such a joy and continues to be as I end the last day of my first business endeavor. I have found that I enjoy my job and I've also realized it is expensive and I need to work on my budget or it won't matter that this job pays  more than my previous because I will have it all spent before I get a chance to save any of it.

Sacramento, CA

     I have also re-kindled a love with Zach. At one point I wasn't sure it was possible, but I can't imagine my day without him in it. As sporadic and crazy as it sounds he just makes me smile and I love him. I think we have both grown as people and as a couple in the last few weeks as well. He challenges me on a daily basis, and shows me unconditional love, even if he is under pressure or stress.

Detroit, MI

     In the last week, possibly two, I've been realizing how much of my trust and love for others has been done naively. I did not realize the grotesque amount of discrimination there is in our country. Namely religious discrimination and hatefulness. For a country that was built on religious ground, it was built for others to worship a way they chose; it has turned into "it's fine if you worship, just as long as you worship." Those who chose not to be religious, spiritual, or even believe in a God are punished through emotional judgement and hate. Isn't it the same principle? Can't we all join hands in saying, "everyone has the right to chose"? Weather this includes religion, sexual preference, how to raise their children, etc. As long as it is safe and doesn't harm others or themselves, we should not be concerned with others beliefs and more of their character and attitude. I hope that I can teach my children this when and if I have them. I want them to know that people are imperfect and not always what we expect them to be. We have two options; we can accept them and forgive them of their flaws, or we can exclude them from our lives. There is no need for hateful actions toward them. It does no good to hurt others with words/emotional threats. (Of course I am not talking about illegal actions or life threatening situations)



-Ashley Clarke