What drives me? Witnessing the unhappiness in my family due to unrealized potential fuels my motivation. Throughout my life, I faced ridicule and was made to feel inadequate. However, as I began to believe in myself and achieve my goals, my faith in myself grew, knowing that with God’s guidance, all things are achievable.

This is tough because most of the amenities we have are luxuries.  How do you just choose one? Running water, sewage system,  car, air conditioning,  internet, smart phone, how do you choose just one?  Are these considered luxuries or basic necessities?  I can’t answer this question,  can you guys help me? 

During my younger years, I was an avid collector of Batman comics, finding immense joy in delving into the world of the caped crusader. As time passed, my interests evolved, leading me to develop a passion for collecting bikes. Presently, I am the proud owner of three road bikes: a sturdy aluminum Raleigh, a sleek triathlon bike designed for speed and endurance, and a lightweight carbon bike known for its performance and agility.

The thrill of riding my bikes through various terrains and landscapes fills me with a sense of freedom and exhilaration. However, the surroundings in Louisiana, where I currently reside, present challenges for cyclists like me. The lack of bike-friendly infrastructure and amenities in the area often hampers my riding experiences and limits the opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Despite the obstacles posed by the less-than-ideal biking conditions in Louisiana, I remain dedicated to my passion for cycling. I dream of residing in a location that prioritizes and supports biking as a mode of transportation and recreation, offering safe and accessible routes for enthusiasts like myself to traverse and savor the beauty of the outdoors.

Nevertheless, I continue to make the most of my biking experiences, seeking out local cycling communities and resources to enhance my rides and connect with fellow enthusiasts. While Louisiana may not be the ideal haven for bikers, I find solace and satisfaction in the simple act of pedaling, reveling in the thrill of the ride and the freedom it bestows upon me.

In our fast-paced and often tumultuous world, I have set my heart on leaving a legacy defined by helpfulness and kindness. My aspiration has always been to live in a way that aligns with the teachings of Jesus, embodying his message of love and compassion. In every interaction, whether with friends, family, or strangers, I strive to be a genuine friend, offering support and understanding to all I encounter.

Today, kindness and civility are more crucial than ever. The challenges we face collectively are immense, and it seems that life’s burdens weigh heavily upon many. In such times, small acts of kindness can make a significant difference. A smile, a listening ear, or a simple gesture of goodwill can uplift someone’s spirit and remind them that they are not alone.

I believe that each person has the power to influence the world positively. By living a life grounded in empathy and respect, we can foster communities where everyone feels valued and heard. This philosophy is not just an ideal; it is a practice that begins with daily choices. Every day presents new opportunities to show kindness, whether through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply offering words of encouragement.

Living as Jesus did means embracing love, forgiveness, and humility. It’s about seeing the divine in every individual and acknowledging our shared humanity. This perspective encourages us to bridge divides, heal wounds, and build connections that transcend differences. In a world often fragmented by conflict and misunderstanding, choosing to be a friend to all can pave the way for peace and reconciliation.

Moreover, kindness is not a finite resource; it grows the more we share it. As we extend kindness to others, we often find that it returns to us in unexpected ways. This cycle of giving and receiving creates a supportive network that sustains us through life’s inevitable hardships.

I am deeply committed to this path because I have witnessed the transformative power of kindness firsthand. Over the years, I’ve seen how simple acts can change lives, including my own. When we act with compassion, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own. There is a profound sense of fulfillment in knowing that our actions contribute to a more loving and understanding world.

It is my hope that by living this way, I can inspire others to do the same. We all have the capacity to be beacons of light amid darkness. By nurturing kindness and extending friendship, we can help create a world where empathy and respect are the norms rather than the exceptions.

In conclusion, my life’s mission is to be a testament to the power of kindness and the enduring impact of living as Jesus taught. I am dedicated to being a friend to all, promoting civility, and embodying the values of love and compassion. Together, through our collective efforts, we can overcome the challenges of today and build a brighter, more harmonious future for all.

This one’s easy for me: I absolutely love tropical fruits. Sometimes I think I should have been born on an island! Mangos are my top favorite—they might be a bit messy, but when you slice into one at just the right moment, the taste is incredible. It’s best to enjoy them over a sink or outside where you can easily rinse off.

I also enjoy bananas, kiwis, and pineapples. And of course, I can’t forget prunes. They’re essential for staying regular, which becomes more important as you get older like me.

In today’s digital age, I find myself spending a lot of time on Facebook and my phone, often at the expense of real-life connections. I’ve been reflecting on how I could benefit from stepping away from screens and embracing the opportunity to connect with the people right in my neighborhood. By making an effort to get to know those around me, I could overcome the fear of talking to strangers and open myself up to new and enriching experiences.

When I do take the plunge and engage with others, I notice a significant decrease in my anxiety levels, and I feel less frustrated about my life. There’s something incredibly grounding about having genuine conversations and building relationships with those nearby. It reminds me of the importance of community and the support it can offer.

Although I don’t have a husband or children of my own, I find immense joy in the interactions I have with my neighbors’ children. Their visits bring light into my life, as they approach me with curiosity and warmth. It’s as if they’re performing little wellness checks on me, ensuring I’m doing alright. Their presence is a source of happiness and comfort, and I truly cherish these moments.

These interactions have taught me that connection doesn’t always have to come from traditional family structures. Community bonds can be just as meaningful and impactful. The laughter and innocence of children have a way of healing and reminding us of life’s simple pleasures.

I’m beginning to realize that by stepping away from digital distractions and embracing the world around me, I can cultivate a sense of belonging and peace. This shift in focus allows me to appreciate the beauty in everyday encounters and the richness they bring to my life.

Moving forward, I am committed to nurturing these neighborhood connections. Whether it’s through casual conversations over the fence or participating in local activities, I want to be an active part of my community. These efforts not only enhance my own well-being but also contribute to a more connected and supportive neighborhood.

Ultimately, my goal is to live more mindfully and embrace the present moment. By prioritizing face-to-face interactions, I hope to build lasting relationships that enrich my life and the lives of those around me. It’s a journey of growth and discovery, one that I am excited to continue.

Every day, I make it a point to run, bike, or swim as part of my training for a full Ironman in November. It’s been challenging, but I thrive on having a goal to work towards. Staying committed to my plan, even with life’s daily challenges, is something I truly enjoy.

Playing Call of Duty brings back fond memories of when my twin sister and I would dive into the game together. We had such a blast, especially on New Year’s Eve, when we would play until 6 a.m. with her friend Chris. The three of us had an incredible time battling zombies. Now, I find myself playing solo, hoping that one day she’ll come online so we can relive those good old times together.