June has been filled with changes for me, some new, some victories, some surprises, some simply a return to “previous settings” of sorts. I moved back to Ottawa, I started at a new job at a software company, I returned to an old standby – coaching the PaddleAll program at the canoe club, I registered for classes at a new school, and I began packing and planning for my new apartment (move in should be July 2018). With all of these changes, I find myself reflecting regularly on the situations which surround me. The additional energy that I have gained from tube feeds, I find, leaves me with energy for introspection and self-improvement.
Reuniting with a former elementary school teacher (June 2, 2018)
First time back in a sprint kayak in 2 years (June 25, 2018)
For the first time in a long time, every decision I make is being made with my own wellness in mind. I am done making decisions for the sake of others instead of myself, and decisions for the sake of what society tells me is expected. For the first time in a long time, my choices feel right. Being closer to my family, and to my medical support, feels right. My community being happy that I have returned to them feels right. My new school program choice, computing and applied mathematics, feels right. A school which allows me the flexibility to take the courses I need, at the time I need, feels right. The distance from the, occasionally toxic, competitive culture at Waterloo, while maintaining the friendships I made there through the internet, feels right. The stable nature of a school which does not require it’s students to be constantly on the move feels right.
Stopping to admire the sunset (June 24, 2018)
The past few years have been an absolute whirlwind, and I am finally feeling a sense of true peace. I have time to create, and emotional space to appreciate the beauty which surrounds me, and I absolutely am taking advantage. I hope whoever reads this finds the motivation to do the same.
New music and evening walks – it’s the little things in life (June 8 and June 27, 2018)
Sabina Catherine 