Grateful to Know You
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
In the last 24 hours, I woke up at 5 a.m., drove 370 miles and did some pretty intense soul searching with a piña colada in hand.
My friend and I packed an assortment of clothes and drove six hours down to Panama City last night: the epitome of an impulse decision. When I got over the anxiety of missing my classes, I started to think about the real reason for my sudden escape. What was I really running from?
When we got to the hotel, I wasted no time and instantly ran to the sand. I planted my feet in the crystal clear water and watched as strangers admired the same beautiful waves and appreciated the same ocean breeze as me. I watched as families searched for seashells, young girls screamed as the tide grabbed at their toes and older couples walked hand-in-hand discussing the trivial matters of married life. As I observed, I couldn’t help but think about the people I used to share moments like this with years ago.
My memories were blocking my ability to be truly present.
Image Courtesy: Ruby Gagnon
I could’ve blamed this adventure on a sudden burst of energy; however, I couldn’t ignore the obvious truth: I was running away from feelings I couldn’t escape. The emotions of my previous week had caught up with me. Although I left Athens with nothing but a tote bag, I had a car full of baggage to unpack.
It took me traveling a few hundred miles to realize I was plagued with memories of the people of my past.
Reflecting too hard on the relationships that I no longer have has been holding me back from appreciating the beauty of the friendships that I’ve just begun to grow. Even now, I’m on the gulf of Panama City with my new best friend (that I met a few months ago) and I can’t help but wish I could talk about these moments with the people that I used to value.
I realized one very important thing in these 24 hours of soul-searching. I no longer wish to be restricted by memories.
Today, on this crazy adventure of mine, I have decided to loosen my grip on what’s behind me and just live. I acknowledge the impact of all the people that have contributed to my life, but by releasing the burdens of the friendships I’ve lost, I am focusing on the people that I’ve gained.
I am leaving my past in Panama City.
I say these parting words for you and for myself.
To the people of my memories: I’ve said it a million times and I will say it a trillion more, I am grateful to have known you.
To the universe: Thank you for letting souls stop by, even if just for a moment and giving me people to miss.
To my new adventure partner: I needed you in my life and am eternally grateful to have you.
To everyone reading: If no one has told you today, I am really happy you are here and urge you to take an adventure. Letting go of surface level worries can allow you to dig a little bit deeper and help you see what you’re truly running from.
And lastly, to the beach: I’m glad to exist on the same planet as you. You made this Wednesday one I’ll never forget.
I’m grateful for the adventure. I’m grateful for the strangers on the beach making memories that remind me of my own. But most importantly, I’m grateful to have met you.
Strike Out,
Ruby Gagnon
Editor: Caroline Kostuch
Athens