Thank you, Next

Why trying to measure up to other people's standards isn't all it's cracked up to be.

Well ladies and gentlemen, hello. I have to admit I'm not as eloquent a writer as the rest of the BELA gang but I'll give it my best shot. :) Spring semester has flown by with less than two weeks left to go. Luckily I have easy classes because everything else has been insane. I've been trying to find my footing in the fast-paced social scene, and while I've made great friends, I miss the understanding and acceptance that only comes from those who know me best.

Brief overview of classes

I'm taking children's literature, where we read, discuss, and write about picture books and novels. It's been a great time. Next up, pickleball. Taking this class has seriously turned out to be the best decision - I've had a blast improving my pickleball skills and being outside. There's a girl in my class who I clicked with right from the start so that's been fun. I'm also taking an elementary skills and activities class where I have learned how to hula hoop and crab walk, along with a variety of other necessary life skills.

The social scene

As I mentioned, the social scene is quite the ride. Here have been some of the highlights:

- Went to a Ben Rector concert with Jake Scott as an opener

- Went to the temple in the pouring rain

- Drove up to Squaw Peak with some friends where I may or may not have honked at a suspiciously parked car

- Went to a pool party

- Have been playing lots of volleyball

- Got a job as a janitor at the JSB! Not very exotic but it pays the bills. Just kidding. It really doesn't.

- Got asked on a date! And he gave me flowers! We went to an Indian restaurant and then got ice cream.

The brain's a funny thing

Recently I feel like I have been pulled in so many directions. I don't want to disappoint anyone, but as a result I feel spread thin, and feel that I end up disappointing people anyway. Meanwhile, my brain tries to analyze every situation. This usually ends up with me becoming anxious, jealous, or hurt. I'm starting to realize that at the end of the day, it's okay. It's okay if I'm not everyone's favorite person. I just need to remember how many wonderful people I have in my life that love me and care about me so much. This became even more clear to me when I was able to go on a zoom call and read the scriptures with Lanie, Bethany, and Eve. As for the people who I'm not their favorite - well, I can still enjoy my time with them and be glad that I can be a part of their life. I believe that every person comes into my life for a reason and that it's important to just enjoy the moment and not get too caught up in what other people think of me. Another important thing I've learned this semester is to not judge others. It's easy for me to put people in boxes of who I think they are as a person. As I get to know them I come to understand their story and find out that they're really cool people. I just can't let my judgements and pride get in the way. Every person has something to offer, and no one should be brushed off as unimportant.

As for the future...

After spring semester, I will be going home. Being so close to home, you'd think I'd miss my family less, but there's a sense of belonging at home that can't be replicated. I'll start working at a grocery store at the deli counter (I am not taking comments at this time) and just chill with my family and friends back home.

Until next time.

Hugs and kisses,

Anna