July 1, 2015

Dear July,

Welcome back.

So much has changed since your last visit, I wonder if you would even recognize the person that I have become. In a lot of ways, I am better: stronger, more outgoing and enthusiastic, unafraid to speak my mind, more willing to stand up for myself if the situation calls for it... In other ways, I am much, much different — shaped by changes that were forced upon me by situations beyond my control. It is these differences that seem to continually overshadow all of the good that has occurred during your absence, July, and for that, I am discouraged. Also, I have short hair now. It's amazing what a year can accomplish.

I look forward to the next 31 days, July; the warm, sticky weather and long, lazy afternoons. Though I am working two jobs right now, I am excited to spend my evenings walking in the woods or around town, listening to music and watching daylight's final moments — just before it slips into the evening's gentle embrace. There is a reason that summer is my favorite season and you are one of my favorite months, after all. So much is going on, and yet you progress at your own, reluctant pace; seeming to slow down despite the world's pressure to speed up. I have a lot to learn from you.

It's good to have you back, July. Let's rekindle our friendship and have some fun, shall we?

. . . .

"Dear July" was borrowed from Carrie Fletcher who based her series off of fellow Youtuber, Emily.