1:01 a.m.

today was my last day at work.
after 1 year, 8 months, and 7 days,
i am still in awe that it is all over.
done.
tapos.
finito.

I feel like I have literally graduated
from one of the most challenging work experiences
of my life. And like any graduation day,
i am happy but super duper
reflective -
reflective of the times I bit my tongue to survive,
to the times I developed friendships
from countless hours bitching about a-typical office
issues.

i'm reflective of what this experience
actually turned out to be:
a chapter of life filled with
dozens and dozens of challenges
meant to help me evolve.revolve.transform.

i realize how much i have learned about myself:
my challenges with knowing how to empower myself
in disempowering situations, my ability to survive
day-to-day in spite of everything.

i realize that my challenges in this place
were not an accident.
i truly believe i was meant to experience,
affect and be effected by the people around me
as well as the turn of events that presented themselves.

there was a reason for every challenge,
every milestone, every ho-hum day
and most importantly, i believe there was always someone there
guiding me along the way.

Most of all, I am thankful
for relationships that helped me grow.
there is absolutely no doubt in my mind
that developing and maintaing relationships
is the number one thing that makes this
world go round.

i am thankful that in the end,
my time wasn't all wasted as i thought,
and that now i have even more to
bring to my new adventure.

i can't wait to dive into another chapter of this story.

change brings new beginnings

In yoga, breathing is an integral part of the practice.
It brings fresh oxygen to the entire body and a calmness
that brings a deeper sense of focus.
On the exhale, I am able to let go
of all the toxins (physical and mental) that keep
my self from positive being.

...after holding my breath for exactly one year and
7 months, i got the call that ended 2004 on a high note:

I WAS OFFERED A NEW JOB!

The exhale was sublime.