When You Get It Right.

Signs.

I’ve been receiving them in threes lately, an indication the message is important and received. My life is taking turns I hadn’t anticipated, but this is nothing new for any of us, is it? It’s just another sign life moves around us, even when we’re not expecting it. But, if we continue to listen, our messages become our paths, and our journey to reach the next step is just as beautiful as getting there.

I don’t know where I’m headed right now, and that’s okay. I have another book to write, a man who loves me fiercely and friends who understand my soul. While there are times I look back at past decisions, jobs and friendships, and miss them, I know I’m getting it right. After all, there is no reason to believe bad is waiting for me in the shadows of my happiness. That only brings it closer to the truth.

I’m not ignorant to the fact that tragedy and shame will strike again. But I’m cautiously optimistic I’m equipped with the tools to overcome. It’s honestly all I’ve ever known.

And so, on the verge of feeling like sadness is the farthest from me it’s ever been, I’m not fearful at all.

I’ve been blessed with the voices of others. They remind me how far I’ve come. They show me my potential. and they push me forward through the uncertainties because that’s what we should do for one another. Encourage. Embrace. Empathize.

All I know is everything I’ve been given. And, right now, it’s joy. The kind that sneaks up on you and then spreads through your bones all at once. An electric shock so strong it makes you feel like you could puke. And it scares you a little, because how could happiness hurt, even for a second?

A friend of mine told me to set it in my lap and breathe. And so I’ve found my way through sickening happiness by allowing it to be, just as I have allowed sadness and fear and regret. I guess what I hadn’t realized until this week, is that I’d learned to deal with and feel strong, negative emotions. But I’ve never had happiness stick around long enough for me to realize sometimes it’s something you have to navigate.

What a lucky, beautiful moment to have.

For the first time in my life I know what happiness and pride are. And I am so very thankful for every second of it.