Doing a Bit Better, I Made it Through September
October 1, 2024
Writer: Allison Sengkhounmany
Editor: Chloe Robinson
September brought sweetness even when it had notes of somber. As I take it day by day, I remind myself of the time spent from month to month. There will always be highs and lows. The waves that roll in, sometimes pulling us in, others gently rolling through. I keep it close in my heart, as I shut my eyes, breathing out, softly remembering with every closing, there’s a new beginning. This sentiment was apparent during a recent trip I took with my family, where I realized that life is a balancing act of the good, the bad, and the in-between.
As I flew over the deep Atlantic, I couldn’t help but reminisce and foresee all of the in-between of my adventure. I thought of the tingling sense of excitement I’d felt during my trip, the richness of gratitude. I took a deep breath in and let my troubles dissipate. However, I still doubted my ability to keep everything together in a changing environment and was fearful to leave what was so familiar..
In all these moments and thoughts, my family remained my constant, lifting me up from the aftermath of the storm and mending a fragile heart. Growing up, large affectionate exchanges of words were not common in my household. That didn’t mean the love wasn’t there, but rather expressed in shared moments. Our souls filled after each meal, passing each dish, trading stories, and laughing at absurd topics. My family makes my cup full with their silliness, smiles wider than the shore, and laughter. . This adventure wouldn’t be complete without them. Every bump and loss brought us together in this remarkable trip of a lifetime.
From above the skies to the sandy shores of the beach, I kept thinking, I never want this moment to end. The beach in its calmness – though ever so tumultuous – reminded me of how worth it the tiring sores of travel were. The cold water brings out the warmth inside of me, the sun sets differently in two places but beautifully in both. Take a gander at this garden of the world. It is plentiful, it is grand, it is beautiful, unforgettable and irreplaceable. When the words may not flow, you want to take it all in, you deserve to take it all in. Spend those extra minutes journaling, let your emotions pour out. You’ll find your stride through the rockiness. The tumultuous nature of the ride will settle. You deserve to find your peace.
