Day 16: In Chapter Twelve, I share about how my group therapy family became like family to me. Talk about a friend or friends who are like family to you…and how they remind you just how ENOUGH you are when you’ve forgotten.
I’ve stated previously how I’ve been so incredibly blessed to have some of the best friends and family in my life. Not only do I have a good amount of people back in my home state of Louisiana, but I’ve also gained so many amazing friends that have turned into family since I moved away from home nearly two years ago.
When I first moved to Tennessee, I didn’t really know anyone, with the exception of some family members whom I had recently re-connected with after not seeing them in many years. Growing up, we kept in touch all the time, but it was always difficult getting together since we lived so far away from each other. They took me in for my first few months here, and now, we see each other quite often. I spend my Thanksgivings with them, and I often see them to watch football games with since they understand and whole-heartedly support my die-hard appreciation for my LSU Tigers and New Orleans Saints. It’s so nice having family close by, especially on the days when I’m feeling homesick. They offer such a level of comfort to me whenever I need it. I’m so incredibly fortunate to have them, and I know that I can always count on them for anything.
I’ve also been very fortunate to make several new friends here. We literally all consider each other family, and it’s one of the greatest things ever. Everyone in Nashville has a story of how they ended up here, and nearly everyone is a transplant from somewhere else. The natives are often referred to as “unicorns,” since that’s how rare it is to find them. All of my closest friends know exactly what it’s like to not have our immediate family members close, and it’s a bond that continues to strengthen for us. We help each other in times of need, and we’re constantly doing things to lift each other’s spirits up. We have family dinners, absolutely ridiculous group chats, random adventures, and so many laughs that almost always turn into fits of happy tears.
Five years ago, if someone would’ve told me that I’d be where I am today, I never would’ve believed them. I never would’ve thought I would gain the courage to move out of Louisiana to a state where I barely knew a soul. I never would’ve imagined that I’d be living the life I’m living now with such genuine, kind-hearted, and like-minded people. It continues to amaze me how much my life changes for the better each year. I’m even more amazed by how much I continue to strive and grow as an individual. I’ve gained friends that will surely last a lifetime, and I’m just so grateful for it all.
La Bella Vita 