Jonathan and I, Homecoming 2004Since I was a little girl, my dream was to change the world for the better. Over the years, I saw how journalism had the power to bring me closer to my dream. I understood how one story could change a life, reveal truth, and motivate someone to act.
My philosophy on life is simple- live it to the fullest. For so long I assumed "the fullest" meant never settling for mediocrity. In everything, from school and work, to my relationships with others, I never accepted "ordinary" or "average." I challenged myself and those close to me, because I refused to be like everyone else; I wouldn't be happy with the usual. I was realistic in my understanding that perfection was not attainable, but I wouldn't stop until I was damn near close to it.
Specifically during my college years, I saw my relentless and aggressive attitude toward life result in a positive outcome; well, most of the time. I'd reach for the stars, achieve a goal, then be off to conquer yet another nearly impossible endeavor.
With three days until graduation, I finally learned...I got it all wrong.
Living life to the fullest doesn't mean refusing to accept the unexceptional. For so long I believed that overcoming the impossible was the only way to fulfill my zest for life. It took the unexpected death of my first love and dear friend, Jonathan Monis, to realize I was wrong. Each day brings with it a new experience, a new person , a new challenge. I've learned to embrace what life throws at you, instead of chasing after what it didn't.
I can't help but be reminded of a TV commercial where a little girl is walking along a beach, throwing washed-up star fish back into the ocean. The message is simple; never doubt that one person can make a difference.
I know I can change the world for the better, one starfish at a time, enjoying the many blessings of life along the way...especially the fascinating people I'm lucky to know.
Jonathan Monis: Whoever said pimpin' aint easy never had a starfish. hah.
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