It’s hard to choose a favorite dish I like to cook. Preparing and serving my family meals is my love language and there’s just something truly special about cooking. Especially when it’s done with love. For me, creating wholesome meals isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about nourishing the body and soul. Whether I’m putting together a vibrant salad, grilling up a perfectly seasoned steak, roasting potatoes, or baking fresh bread for the week’s sandwiches, I approach every dish with the same thought in mind: to pour love into my food. And when it’s served fresh from the oven or stovetop, I can’t help but feel the warmth of home in every bite.
Cooking wholesome meals is a ritual for me, one that I cherish. It’s not just about the ingredients or the recipe—it’s about the intention behind the meal. There’s something magical about starting with simple, fresh ingredients and transforming them into something nourishing and comforting. The beauty of a colorful salad, the satisfying juiciness of a well-cooked steak, or the warm aroma of roasted potatoes—they’re all reminders of the power food has to bring people together and provide comfort.
But for me, the magic doesn’t stop with the ingredients. It’s in the love and care I pour into each dish. I believe that when you cook with love, the food tastes better. There’s a personal touch that goes beyond flavor—it’s the energy you put into the meal. Whether I’m making something simple or elaborate, I know that the time and attention I give to each step makes the meal special.
When I cook, I think about more than just filling stomachs. I want the food I make to nourish my kids’ bodies, yes, but I also want it to nourish their hearts and souls. There’s something deeply emotional about the act of sharing a meal together, especially one that has been made with care and love. I hope that when they sit down to a meal I’ve prepared, they not only feel satisfied but also feel the warmth of that love. Whether it’s a quick dinner after a busy day or a more elaborate weekend meal, I want my children to taste the care and attention in every bite, knowing that every meal is an expression of love.
In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, cooking meals from scratch is my way of staying connected—to my family, to tradition, and to the art of nurturing with food. It’s about taking time to make something wholesome, not just for nourishment but for connection. I hope my kids will remember the warmth of the meals I made for them and understand that it’s not just about feeding the body—it’s about feeding the spirit too.
Perhaps I haven’t truly addressed the question, or maybe my answer just reflects my passion for cooking—whatever the dish may be. It could be said that the kitchen is my favorite room in the house. I find joy in infusing each meal with love, as there’s no better way to show I care than with a meal that’s made from the heart.
I woke up this morning feeling as though I had had a nightmare but really it was just a chance to reflect and appreciate the position my family and I are currently in. I’m grateful everyday I wake up, and for all the little things. A beautiful sunset, the smell of my coffee brewing in the morning, a cozy fire in the middle of winter. I feel its important to show these things everyday not just for my own mental health but for my children to see as well. However there are still days that I’m humbled and I learn something else to be grateful for. Let me give you a little background first, before I delve into the “blast from the past” dream.
Thirteen years ago, I fled a violent relationship with my daughter, who was three at the time, and moved back to my hometown. I had set us up in a cute little apartment in the middle of town. It was something I could afford on my own as a single working mother, and made do with what we had. We may have started out with lawn chairs as living room furniture, but little by little, we turned it into a home.
Living in apartments was a constant throughout my childhood. So a sense of familiarity washed over me being in that little two bedroom; however, just because I was accustomed to it didn’t mean I enjoyed it. I didn’t love having so many neighbors living so close. Some were louder than others, some noisier, and some just plain creepy. Still, it was our space, and for the first time since I’d fled, I felt a true sense of independence and ambition.
Although our small apartment met our basic needs—offering shelter, a space to prepare and enjoy meals, and a cozy place to rest—I longed for more space: a yard of our own, room to roam, or maybe a dog. Growing up, even while living in an apartment, I had always been surrounded by animals, but this particular complex made it nearly impossible to keep them without hefty fees. We settled for pet fish, and my daughter had an odd fascination with ants, so she kept a little farm. Once again, we made due with what we had. Years down the road, I met my now-husband. We shared the same goals for the future, wanting animals, gardening space, and places for the kids to play. When things became serious and we were ready to merge our lives, we sought out a home that could accommodate our growing family while working toward our goals. It didn’t happen all at once, but gradually, we came to be where we are today.
Now, here we are several years later and I’m dreaming back to that apartment—one that my husband, our three children, who are now 12, 15, and 16, and I had to move back into. In the dream, I kept telling myself that it was only temporary and that we would be back in a house with some property and room for the kids in no time. Why, you may ask, were we moving into an apartment? Who knows. That’s the nature of dreams, though, isn’t it? You don’t always know everything that’s happening, but you can’t deny the emotions tied to those experiences. Even if those experiences are in your head and not our physical reality.
I awoke this morning with a profound sense of gratitude that filled my heart. As I lay there reflecting on my journey—on the path I’ve walked, the challenges I’ve faced, and the many moments of growth—I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the sheer depth of it all. When I think about my past, my present, and everything I’ve accomplished along the way, it brings tears to my eyes. More than just my personal achievements, I think of the milestones my family has reached, the strength we’ve shown, and how far we’ve come together.
If I could somehow transport myself back to that difficult time in my life, when every day felt like a struggle, I would have never imagined that things could unfold this way. Back then, my goals were simple, focused purely on survival. I just wanted to ensure safety and stability for my daughter and myself, to make decisions that would lead us to a place of peace and security. The future felt uncertain, and dreams beyond that were hard to envision.
But now, looking around, the contrast is nothing short of monumental. The life we live today is something I once thought was beyond reach. It’s a testament to resilience, to the unwavering will to keep moving forward even when the road ahead seemed unclear. I can hardly believe how far we’ve come, and I’m filled with a deep appreciation for how much we’ve grown and for every person and moment that helped shape this beautiful reality.
To anyone who’s struggling right now, I want you to know that the journey is long, and sometimes the steps forward can feel small, but they add up. Keep going. The future you imagine today could be even greater than you could ever anticipate.
Here is my daughters fish tank from back then. Where a big eyed black gold fish would swim about peacefully until one day when he was overfed and went belly up. RIP Bubba.And.. of course a silly selfie. This is me in the very apartment I’m referencing. I look like such a baby!
Starting a blog felt like a distant dream for years, I was held back by the nagging grip of self-doubt. The idea of sharing my thoughts publicly intimidated me; I often questioned whether my words would resonate with anyone. Each time I considered it, I pushed the idea aside, allowing my lack of confidence to overshadow my aspirations. It seemed easier to dismiss the idea entirely, and so I did, watching my dreams slip away unnoticed. However, I finally mustered the courage to take the plunge, and the journey that followed has been incredibly rewarding. Here’s what has motivated me to finally take that significant step and keep chugging along.
A Need to Share My Passion
We all have passions, and for me, that passion lies in homesteading. The joy that fills my little heart when I’m outside in the sunshine, taking care of my animals or gardening, is like no other. It feels like a fleeting escape to a simpler time when living off the land was the norm, far removed from the societal pressures and the relentless 9-to-5 bullshit routines of modern life. While I appreciate that some folks can successfully embrace a completely off-grid existence, that’s just not in the cards for me right now, and that’s okay. Finding a balance between my dreams and reality is sufficient.
Through blogging, I’ve discovered a fantastic way to express my passion, share knowledge, and recount the experiences that have shaped my journey. The desire to release these thoughts, rather than keeping them confined, has urged me to connect with others who might find value or inspiration in my story. Whether it involves offering practical tips, narrating personal anecdotes, or initiating meaningful dialogues, this platform has transformed into my creative outlet. It allows me to encourage others to embark on their own homesteading adventures and fosters connections with individuals who share similar interests.
A Space to Process and Reflect
Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind without taking time to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’re headed. Blogging has become a form of therapy for me—a way to process my thoughts, celebrate my wins, and work through challenges. When I write, I find clarity. Ideas that once felt scattered begin to make sense, and I often discover new perspectives I hadn’t considered before. Blogging is not just about creating content for others—it’s also about creating space for myself to grow and evolve.
A Desire to Help Others
Blogging offers a deeply rewarding experience when it comes to helping others. Whether I share practical advice, lessons learned from my own missteps, or simply words of encouragement, my goal is to be a supportive resource. This blog serves as a platform for that mission. I’ve already connected with beginner homesteaders through social media, addressing inquiries ranging from “What’s wrong with my chicken’s butt?” to “How do I make a sourdough starter?” Feeling a profound sense of gratitude, I cherish the chance to respond to these questions; because they were once my own.
I aspire to be a reliable source for any question you might have, regardless of how insignificant it may seem. Here, you won’t face judgment for not having conducted thorough research or for feeling uninformed. There’s far too much negativity in the world already. My vision for this blog is to create a space where readers find genuine support and value. If I don’t have the answer right away, rest assured I’ll make every effort to find it for you! Knowing that even a single person might read my post and leave feeling inspired, informed, or uplifted brings a profound sense of achievement.
The Joy of Creativity
Writing has always been a creative outlet for me. Blogging gives me the freedom to explore this passion in a way that feels authentic and exciting. From brainstorming ideas to crafting stories to designing my website, the process of building a blog has been a deeply satisfying and creative journey so far. What’s even better is that blogging allows me to combine multiple interests; after all, it’s my blog, right? I can share my favorite recipes, talk about my animals, gardening, and my art projects. It’s a space where my creativity can thrive without boundaries.
A Push Out of My Comfort Zone
Starting a blog wasn’t easy. It meant putting myself out there, risking criticism, and confronting my own self-doubt. I know that growth doesn’t happen in our comfort zones, so it was time to step out of the box and burn it down so I could never go back.
Blogging has challenged me to develop new skills, from learning how to create engaging content to understanding the technical side of running a website. It has pushed me to become more disciplined, confident, and open to feedback. While it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, the challenges have been worth it.
Building Connections
Throughout my blogging journey, one of my aspirations is to forge meaningful connections. Engaging on social media has introduced me to numerous homesteaders who resonate with my interests and values. Their kindness and encouragement stand out, creating a stark contrast to the often harsh reality we see in the physical world.
While the internet can feel overwhelming at times, it also serves as a remarkable platform for discovering a supportive community united by shared passions. Through my blogging efforts, I hope to deepen these connections and cultivate this growing network. In addition to the homesteading community I’m gradually nurturing, I’ve also found camaraderie within the WordPress environment. The inspiring writers here provide valuable insights and thoughtful reflections that uplift and motivate me.
To Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Blogging isn’t about perfection or instant success—it’s about the journey. I didn’t start blogging to become an overnight success or to make a quick buck. I started because I wanted to grow, share, and connect with others. And if, along the way, I can use my blog to retire from my 9-to-5 job early? Then so be it. I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to that.
Each post I write, each comment I receive, and each new idea I explore is a step forward in this ever-evolving journey. And that’s what keeps me coming back to the keyboard.
Final Thoughts
Starting this blog has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. It’s challenged me, inspired me, and connected me to a world of incredible people. It’s given me a space to share my voice, reflect on my journey, and make a small difference in the lives of others.
If you have dreams you haven’t chased yet because your self doubt krept in. I encourage you to take the leap. Don’t worry about being perfect or having all the answers—just start. The journey will teach you everything you need to know and you’ll be so glad you did.
Life gets busy, especially when you work full-time, have children, and run a small farm. So it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I try to set aside time for myself or incorporate things I enjoy into my day-to-day routine. I want to make sure I stay energized and take that time to unwind. Here are five things I like to do for fun.
Dance Like No One’s Watching
There is something magical about letting loose and moving to the beat of your favorite tune. Sometimes it’s a spontaneous dance party in the chicken coop, or maybe it’s a light flow yoga release session to wind down. Besides the physical benefits of dancing (physical exercise and energy release), I just truly enjoy it so much. It’s a form of art, self-expression, and generally just a good time.
Paint My Heart Out
When I get the chance and put a paintbrush in my hand, I feel like everything slows down. One brushstroke at a time, I am capable of bringing a new world to life—one meant only for me and that can be anything I desire. It’s so satisfying to mix the colors, play with textures, and truly let my mind wander. Painting is like a form of meditation for me; it clears my mind and allows my thoughts to drift to… who knows where? Who knew playing with paint could be so peaceful!
Get Lost in Nature
Nature has always had a way of grounding me, no matter how chaotic life gets. I love taking walks in the woods, hiking along the river, or simply sitting in my garden, listening to the bees. Breathing in the fresh air has such a calming effect, and it refreshes my mind and spirit. Nature never fails to remind me of life’s simple pleasures.
Spoil My Animals Rotten
I have always had a special place in my heart for furry, feathery companions. Taking care of my animals is such a rewarding part of my day, from feeding and grooming them to just sitting and bonding with them. I’m always amazed at their little personalities and funny quirks. They never fail to bring a smile to my face.
Exploring
Another thing I like to do for fun is surprise my family with vacations! I seek out new hiking trails or take them up in a helicopter for the first time. These trips are more than just sightseeing—they’re about the experiences and making memories together. Discovering new places, learning new things, and just enjoying each other’s company. (My teenagers do like each other, I swear.) Family trips always leave me feeling inspired and grateful.
So there you have it! These five things bring me the most joy and allow me to recharge when life gets busy.
During childhood, it’s common to develop a strong attachment to a beloved item, whether it be a toy, stuffed animal, or even a cherished blanket. Some might find comfort in simpler things, like their thumb, which is a bit harder to misplace. Typically, these attachments fade as we grow older, with those items often ending up stashed away in a closet or tucked inside a hope chest. They may be passed down to children or grandchildren, or perhaps, like me, you learned your first lesson in “stranger danger” and parted with those precious pieces of our youth.
My Baby Blanket
As a child, I had a favorite possession that I was deeply attached to—my baby blanket. It wasn’t just any blanket. It was a soft, white and yellow piece of comfort that accompanied me everywhere. The blanket had delicate ruffles along the edges, and I could have sworn it had little baby lambs or sheep scattered across it, gently reminding me of warmth and innocence. It was my constant companion through both the mundane and the exciting moments of childhood.
Even as I grew older, I insisted on bringing it with me wherever I went, despite my parents’ advice. “Don’t take it outside,” they would warn. “It might get ruined.” But, like many children, I didn’t always listen to my parents. I was determined to take my precious blanket with me, no matter the consequences.
As I started exploring more, I made friends in the neighboring homes and you guessed it, baby blanket in tow. Nearby, a charming grove of trees beckoned to my friends and me, a place where our imaginations could run wild. We often darted through the dense thicket, pretending to construct forts or engaging in elaborate imaginary adventures. Yet, the reality was that I wasn’t permitted to explore this wooded haven freely. Although I found great joy in the shelter provided by the intertwining branches, this particular grove also served as a refuge for the local homeless community, who had made this serene spot their home. No one had ever bothered us before but understanding now, as an adult, my parents reasoning for trying to keep me away.
Lesson Learned The Hard Way
On one unforgettable day, I found myself wrapped in my blanket, dashing around like a superhero alongside my best friend. We were in our favorite play spot, filled with laughter and mischief, when suddenly a man approached us, clearly displeased with our presence. As a young girl of no more than eight, I often overlooked many realities of the world, but that afternoon, an unsettling feeling began to creep in. The carefree joy we once felt evaporated, replaced by an alarming awareness that we were not welcome—this was his territory. In that moment, the fear I experienced was unlike anything I had faced before.
In a flash, we took off, sprinting as fast as our little legs could manage, leaving my cherished blanket behind. The thought of going back to retrieve it filled me with dread; I couldn’t bear the uncertainty of what might happen next. Especially seeing as I would be returing alone. My friend had confided in me that she could never go back and there was no way I would confess to my parents that I had left it behind—that I had not only disobeyed them but that I had left something so meaningful to me behind in the chaos.
After gathering my courage to revisit the trees, I stumbled upon my blanket mixed within the trash discarded by the current inhabitants. However, it was far from the cherished piece I remembered. The harsh elements had taken a serious toll, leaving the fabric tattered and unrecognizable. Once a comforting emblem of my childhood, it now lay in ruins. Unable to bring it back in such a state, I felt a mix of sadness and bittersweet realization wash over me. This moment served as an important lesson, as the blanket was frayed and no longer complete. I was very much whole and in one piece.
Reflection
Reflecting on that moment, I now find it amusing that my biggest worry was my parents discovering I had left my beloved baby blanket behind, rather than focusing on my own safety. This illustrates just how naive I was at that age. The outcome of this ill-advised day turned out for the best and one that I’m grateful for. Although my blanket is no longer with me. I have the memories of my escapades, alongside the valuable lesson learned from its loss, and it will continue to stay with me.
As human beings, we often dream of living a long life—one filled with health, happiness, and the potential to experience all that the world has to offer. But, what does it truly mean to live such a life, and how do we navigate the challenges that come with extended years? Living a long life, while a blessing in many ways, is also a profound journey that requires a strong sense of self, resilience, and an ability to embrace both the joys and losses that come with the passage of time.
The Promise and Burden of Longevity
The idea of a long, healthy life is appealing, but it comes with the understanding that as we age, we inevitably witness the loss of loved ones, friends, and possibly even our own sense of familiarity with the world around us. Living through such profound changes means learning to face loss repeatedly, a process that can be emotionally and mentally taxing.
We often think of aging in terms of physical decline or the fear of missing out on experiences. However, the real emotional challenge lies in the mental and psychological effects of outliving many people close to us. There is a certain weight to witnessing the passage of time, where memories fade, loved ones pass, and the world around us seems to change in ways we struggle to adapt to. To live a long life, you would need to have a mind that is not only resilient but also flexible enough to continue finding joy, meaning, and purpose even as the landscape of life shifts.
The Power of a Sound Mind
One of the key aspects of living a long life with grace is the ability to cultivate and maintain a sound mind. It’s not just about physical health but about mental and emotional resilience. How does one continue to find meaning in life when many people who once shaped our world are no longer there? How do we preserve our identity and sense of self when the world around us is constantly evolving?
This is where having a strong sense of who you are becomes paramount. Those who live long lives must be individuals who continually redefine their purpose. Whether it’s through nurturing new relationships, exploring new ideas, or diving deeper into personal passions, it’s crucial to continue discovering and rediscovering what brings joy and fulfillment.
It’s important to understand that a long life isn’t about clinging to the past or fearing the future. Rather, it’s about embracing the present moment while understanding and accepting the inevitable changes that come with time. Finding peace within yourself and your life, no matter how long it lasts, means accepting that loss will be a part of the journey.
Living Within Nature
Perhaps one of the most profound ways to live a long, healthy life is to connect with nature. Nature offers us a steady rhythm that can be grounding in moments of turbulence. There is wisdom in recognizing that we, too, are a part of the natural world—born, evolving, and eventually fading back into it. By aligning ourselves with nature’s cycles, we can learn to accept the ebb and flow of life with greater ease.
Living within nature means understanding your place in the grand tapestry of life. It means recognizing that you are both a product of the earth and a fleeting presence in its vast history. It allows for perspective, a reminder that our individual lives are just one small chapter in a much larger story, and in this understanding, we find peace.
The Role of Resilience
Living a long life is undoubtedly about resilience. It’s not about avoiding loss or hardship but learning how to cope with it when it comes. Resilience is what allows us to continue finding our way after experiencing deep sorrow or facing the reality of our own mortality. It’s the inner strength to keep moving forward, even when the path ahead seems unclear.
For those who have lived long lives and endured many losses, resilience often manifests in an unshakable sense of purpose. It is found in the small things—like tending to a garden, watching the sunset, or helping a younger generation find their way in the world. These acts of continuity help to solidify our place in time, reaffirming that while we may lose people and things, we can still shape the world around us in meaningful ways.
Conclusion: A Life Well Lived
In the end, the concept of living a very long life is about much more than just the number of years. It’s about living a life that is rich with experience, connection, and purpose. It’s about knowing that loss will be part of the journey, but not allowing it to define us. Through a sound mind, resilience, and a deep understanding of our place within nature, we can live a long life not just in terms of years but in depth and meaning.
A long life is an opportunity—not just to experience the world more fully, but to leave behind a legacy of wisdom, growth, and grace that can inspire those who come after us.
I often find myself reflecting on the things I could do differently. It’s a common thought process, one that comes when I recognize my shortcomings or mistakes—whether it’s my tendency to act out in anger or my struggles with patience. But here’s the thing: that’s just apart of life, it’s healthy, to think about those moments(just don’t dwell on them). After all, growth happens when we are willing to confront ourselves and the patterns we may want to change.
However, I don’t believe that every aspect of my life needs to be changed. Some things, while they might not be perfect, are exactly how they should be. For example, my quick temper might be something I want to work on, but there are moments where standing up for myself or asserting my boundaries requires that little spark of frustration. Recognizing when that anger is productive and when it’s destructive is part of the process. That balance is a decision I get to make and the key here is deciding what to change and what to keep.
We often think of personal growth as a constant need for improvement—like we’re broken and need fixing. But I’ve realized that change doesn’t mean abandoning everything about who we are. Sometimes growth comes from understanding what makes us strong, and knowing that it’s okay to keep certain parts of ourselves intact. After all, some of our behaviors, even the messy ones, are coping mechanisms or reflections of deep-rooted values.
So, when I think about the mistakes I’ve made or the ways I react in difficult situations, I try to remind myself that they don’t define me. They are just moments in time or whispers in the wind. They are opportunities to learn and shift. I don’t have to constantly rewrite my entire story to grow. I can decide what deserves to change and what should stay. Growth isn’t about perfection; it’s about accepting where you are now and intentionally deciding how you want to evolve.
At the end of the day, personal growth is about choice. It’s about deciding what aligns with your values and how you can be the best version of yourself. The most important thing? That decision is entirely yours and yours alone.
Evaluating someone’s character involves forming an opinion or conclusion drawn from the information that we have at hand. This process is influenced by a mix of emotional responses, intellectual insights, personal experiences, and social dynamics. By interpreting these various elements, we arrive at an assessment of the individual. Ultimately, our judgments stem from how we perceive these facets, culminating in a holistic view of their character.
Learned Behavior or Deep-Seated Instinct
Judging someone’s character raises intriguing questions about our upbringing and innate perceptions. Many of us might not recall specific lessons about moral judgments from our childhoods, yet it’s likely that we absorbed these ideas subconsciously. As children, we observe the world around us and begin to make sense of our surroundings, forming opinions about what seems right or wrong, who we regard as good or bad Instinctively, we sometimes decide not to trust certain individuals. This reaction could be colored by familiar patterns, like a person’s gait reminding us of a stereotypical villain from films, leading us to label them as untrustworthy. Conversely, a quirky shirt might trigger a positive association, making us feel drawn to that person.
Delving deeper, one might wonder if our impressions of others stem from even more profound sources. It’s fascinating how we can sense a palpable shift in energy when someone enters a room, regardless of our previous knowledge of them. This phenomenon suggests that there may be subtle undercurrents in social interactions that escape our conscious awareness yet resonate with us at a deeper level. Is this a product of our environmental influences and upbringing, shaping our judgments based on visual cues, body language, and social engagement?
Learning Judgment
From a young age, we often hear the warning not to engage with strangers, particularly when it comes to accepting food or drinks from them. This guidance likely stems from a time when our ability to assess character was still developing. Children, in their innocence, tend to trust others without hesitation, lacking the quick judgment required to evaluate safety and trustworthiness. Throughout our formative years, we learn about right and wrong, navigating what is deemed acceptable or unacceptable behavior. These lessons, informed by experiences and external feedback, help shape our ability to make judgments as we mature.
Trusting our intincts
Are there inherent factors influencing our judgments of character? After countless generations, assessing character has evolved into a vital life skill. Encounter someone in a dimly lit alley, and your body immediately triggers a fight-or-flight response. Can you sense the energy of an individual who might intend you harm? Is this circumstance perilous or safe?
Most people have likely heard the advice to “trust your gut.” Some scientists claim that its our brains sending us signals that our conscious minds may not fully grasp, leading to an unsettling feeling without a clear reason. However I prefer to think of a higher power in play and it resembles the ancestors depicted in the film Mulan, relaying messages that help us navigate our instincts. 🤣
The role of society
While human judgment may have evolutionary roots and learned behaviors it is also shaped by cultural and societal influences. The values, beliefs, and norms of the society in which we live determine what we consider to be trustworthy or truthful. The media exposure alone complicates the bombardment of information we receive. It often blurs the lines between fact and fiction.
Balancing Instinct and Insight
Assessing someone’s character may seem straightforward, yet real-life experiences reveal a much more complex truth. Multiple factors contribute to our judgments, and we often miss the mark, just as those we evaluate may have made their own missteps. It’s not uncommon to make the mistake of assuming someone is fundamentally flawed, only to discover they are genuinely kind. This echoes the wisdom of the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”
Like many others, I have fallen into the trap of making hasty judgments. My optimistic outlook often drives me to seek the good in everyone, believing that beneath the surface, everyone harbors a positive trait. This hopeful perspective has thrown me into a variety of interesting situations. While I continue to choose an optimistic view of people’s character, I have learned to protect myself and not take unnecessary risks for their sake.
