Anniversary of my liberation

“Six years ago, hope was nothing much 

Waking up to a stranger’s touch 

I gave up a lot just to be free

But my good friends hung on to me”

Today is what I call the “anniversary of my liberation”: six years ago, I got on a plane with two suitcases (and a few boxes of belongings on their way in a container ship), leaving everything (job, apartment, partner of seven years, etc.) behind in Europe, moving to California and following my dream of a lifetime. 

It was scary and very painful but the desire and need to get away, the eagerness to follow my dreams at last were stronger and overshadowed everything else — fortunately. 

To date, I still see that as the best (albeit possibly the hardest) decision of my life. And that’s why I’ve been celebrating this anniversary ever since, making the best I can of this date every year. 

Today, I’ll celebrate by enjoying the sunshine and focusing on the positive aspects/feelings of my upcoming move to Colorado. 

I’ll go on my long weekly trail run on my favorite trail. 

I’ll pack boxes with a sense of care and joy, with the idea of unburdening myself for some time while also treasuring and taking care of the things I love and want to keep. 

I’ll go see the sunset at the beach and then have a hearty dinner and relaxing evening, possibly with a friend visiting, otherwise planning the nice parts of my upcoming trip. 

Another big upcoming move, almost exactly six years after my life-changing move..!