There is an art form to the way we choose to live our lives.
It goes farther than this decision, or that decision- it is more than the path we "happen" upon, because it is, in fact, the path we "choose".
Back in grade school, I remember studying poetry in my English class. Every year my teacher would have us all memorize a poem, and recite it to the other students. Now, I don't remember much from those days, but I have never forgotten that poem.
"The Road Not Taken", by Robert Frost. A lot can be said about this particular piece of literature, but in short the poem inspired taking the road less traveled. Going your own way.
In recent years, especially in preparation for University life, I have planned out a version of myself (and my future) that fit the expectation others set out for me. I have always lived an artistic life, as I was passionate about film, dance, photography, acting, and singing- but others told me they were not practical career choices. These individuals kept telling me to quit, that even with talent I could never be "good enough", and soon I began to tell myself the same thing.
As soon as college came, I began my search for a degree that was "smart". I was hoping to find a major that I could hang my hat on, and build a functional, sustainable life off of. I was so afraid to dare try anything different. I was avoiding the 'road not taken' at all costs. But it was more than that.
I was being lazy. I was avoiding a future of working towards something that I might actually want. I was avoiding an unsure tomorrow because I figured a predictable one was far more reasonable. I was avoiding the adventure that I was so quick to sell, and the failure that I feared I would meet.
I spent so much time being upset because my dreams all seemed so unrealistic. I was bound by societies expectation, and held down by their limits. It took me a year of growth to realize that THEIR LIMITS DO NOT HAVE TO BE MINE. and they wont be. That is why I am writing today.
I have spent way too much of my young life focusing on practicality, and perception, and what is mature. I am done with walking in a line down the road most often taken, to a location packed full of individuals who were too afraid to follow their dreams.
The road not taken is left untouched because few have the guts to attempt it. This path is not paved, or sculpted. It will be bumpy, it will be rough, and you may not be able to see whats on the other side.
but I figure, a view from a climb like that has got to be phenomenal.
So this is me investing in what I love, regardless of the logic behind it.
Im giving up working only for money.
Im giving up being practical.
Im giving up dreaming small.
Im giving up taking the easy way.
Im giving up being angry.
Im giving up hating my job.
Im giving up hating the decisions I make.
Im giving up a future of comfort, and I am trading it in for a future far more valuable.
One of Joy.
And I know Im going to be tired. I know It will not be as easy. I know there will be sacrifices, and challenges, and frustrations- but at the end of the day, I know my dreams cannot be met any other way.
Anything worth having is worth working for, fighting for, and climbing for.
My dreams are worth those challenges.
I am going to use this blog to track my growth, my struggles, my thoughts and even my inspiration throughout this journey. Additionally, this blog has been earlier dedicated to the change of my lifestyle habits.
QUICK UPDATE: I am currently in the learning, and beginning processes of becoming a fully raw vegan. Because this lifestyle must be understood in all of its entirety before one jumps into it, I have been doing a lot of research, and study as far as nutrition and making sure I am getting everything my body needs to function.
Honestly this road has been very bumpy for me so far, as fast food is easy to crave and easy to achieve, but I have been fully clean so I know the health side of the diet works.
After a week of being fully raw, and having most of the odd toxins in my body flushed- I felt incredible. I had energy, and I did not go to bed feeling disgustingly full (which is the worst). I felt phenomenal. In the weeks to follow, I began to drink soda again. I can honestly say that I now recognize exactly the effect soda has on my body. I feel like I am tired, and never completely aware of what is happening around me. It makes me feel heavy, and impatient.
I am still constantly working towards a future in fully raw eating habits, and hope to find some accountability with the individuals I surround myself with.
Thank you for reading,
and I will update you within the week!!
TJ
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