What I Did This Summer and What I Learned Along the Way

A few months ago, I embarked on a journey that completely changed my life. I moved to a new city—far from everything I’d ever known, over a thousand miles from the place I had called home for over three decades. It was my first time living away from my children, my first time truly living on my own. This new chapter was supposed to be thrilling: a fresh start, an empty nest, the freedom to rediscover myself. And while it was exciting, it was also far more challenging than I could have ever imagined.

As I packed up my life and said goodbye to the familiar, I carried with me equal parts hope and fear. I had always been the kind of person who sought out growth and embraced challenges, but this one tested me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The excitement of starting anew was quickly met with the stark reality of loneliness, uncertainty, and the sheer weight of change.

In the months that followed, I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. There were moments of joy, where the thrill of independence filled me with courage and strength. And then there were moments of profound loneliness, where the absence of my loved ones felt almost unbearable. I’ve felt everything from peace to anxiety, from empowerment to doubt. Some days, these emotions came all at once, leaving me wondering if I had made the right choice.

But what I’ve come to realize is that this chapter of my life, though difficult, has been one of the most transformative. Growth doesn’t come from staying in our comfort zones—it comes from stepping into the unknown, facing our fears, and learning to trust ourselves. And that’s exactly what I’ve been doing.

Living alone for the first time has been both liberating and humbling. Without the distractions of others’ expectations or the constant pull of daily routines, I’ve been able to turn inward and truly get to know myself. I’ve come face-to-face with my strengths and weaknesses, my hopes and fears. I’ve discovered aspects of myself that I love and others that I’m still working through. And while some of these realizations have been difficult, they’ve also been deeply rewarding.

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned during this time is the importance of alignment—of living in a way that reflects my core values. When I’ve felt lost or stuck, it’s often been because I wasn’t honoring what truly matters to me. Reconnecting with those values has been like finding a guiding light in the darkness, reminding me of who I am and what I stand for.

To navigate this period of change, I’ve leaned heavily on practices that ground me—meditation, prayer, and journaling. These tools have been my lifeline, helping me process the waves of emotions and find peace amidst the uncertainty. I’ve recommitted to these practices with a sense of purpose, knowing that they are not just habits but essential acts of self-care. Through them, I’ve learned to trust in the flow of life, to let go of the need to control everything, and to open myself up to unexpected possibilities.

Another powerful realization I’ve had is that being alone is not the same as being lonely. There’s a beauty in solitude that I never fully appreciated before. In the quiet moments, I’ve found clarity and strength. I’ve learned to enjoy my own company, to sit with my thoughts without judgment, and to find peace within myself. At the same time, I’ve also come to understand the importance of connection. Even the most introverted among us need to feel seen, heard, and understood.

While I’m grateful for the technology that allows me to stay connected with loved ones from afar, there’s nothing quite like the magic of in-person connection. Meeting new people, sharing stories, and building relationships in my new city have been both challenging and rewarding. These moments of connection have reminded me that, no matter how isolated we may feel at times, we are never truly alone.

Perhaps the most surprising lesson I’ve learned is the power of self-compassion. In this season of life, I’ve had to let go of the idea that I need to prove myself to anyone. I’ve realized that it’s enough for me to notice my own achievements, to be proud of myself, and to celebrate the small victories. This shift in perspective has been incredibly freeing, allowing me to show up authentically and unapologetically.

As I continue to settle into this new chapter, I find myself filled with gratitude—not just for the highs but also for the lows. Every challenge, every moment of doubt, has taught me something valuable. I’ve learned that growth often comes disguised as discomfort, that resilience is built through perseverance, and that every step forward—no matter how small—is worth celebrating.

In the weeks ahead, I plan to share more about what has helped me through this journey: the tools and practices that have grounded me, the support systems that have uplifted me, and the lessons that have shaped me. I want to offer a glimpse into how meditation, breathwork, journaling, and acts of service have played a role in my healing.

If you’re going through your own season of change, I want you to know this: it’s okay to feel scared, overwhelmed, or unsure. Change is never easy, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow, to learn, and to discover parts of yourself you didn’t know existed. You are stronger than you realize, and you are never alone.

Wherever you are on your journey, I’m walking this path with you. Together, we can face the unknown with courage, trust the process, and embrace the beauty of transformation.