We are the Smiths: March Left 👏👣💋

Aren't learning opportunities fun? I mean, sometimes. Ha I've had a few this month, which I totally embrace and am thankful for, but they are also - sometimes - very painful.

My first lesson was in communication. I learned that 93% of communication is body language and tone and 7% is words. 7%? Are you kidding me! No wonder our world is struggling so much. With text and email there is so much opportunity for miscommunication.

In my experience, when issues arise between family, friends and partners, it's usually due to miscommunication. If we just took the time to sit down and have a face-to-face, most times that is all it takes.

But then our ego steps in, and we wait for the other party to go first. I'm not saying that our ego is bad, I realize it is absolutely necessary; however, putting it in check is also very necessary. Ignorance is NOT bliss.

I've been practicing saying what I mean when talking and texting and it's been very challenging. Our society has taught us to sugar-coat things, when really if we are just honest and kind, the truth will set us free. At the end of the day, if what I say offends you, that is on you - not me. We tend to create these stories in our head instead of stepping back and realizing the intent is probably pure (again that is where our ego steps in).

However, because I care about my relationships, I have chosen to let my family and friends know what I am practicing so they know to trust that I have the best intetion. It still hasnt been easy, but it's been interesting to experience.

CHG is all about feedback... And sometimes feedback can be hard, good or bad. But learning to trust intentions and realizing that CHG employees really do practice what CHG claims to be about, has made it very refreshing. I've learned a lot and I am surrounded by amazing human beings every single day. #YayForCBD

I know in life joy isn't constant, so I have learned to be very present when things are going well and to experience it at its fullest. Life is filled with ups and downs - always will be - so when you are up, breathe it in and allow yourself to be completely happy. You are worthy.

We went to Dallas and my cousin and aunt threw us a surprise Bachelorette/Bridal party and it was so fun! We visited some museums and a friend from San Antonio. We went to the Kennedy and Holocaust Museum and it was amazing... I find history so fascinating! (Nerd)

We had so many bonding moments (my cousin, aunt, his friends, Kels and myself), with my favorite being watching the series on Gay Rights 'When We Rise,' with my Tia.

She said something to me that struck a chord. I was telling her how there aren't many lesbians my age active in our community, and she said "that's because you guys walked into your rights, you didn't have to fight this fight." (Saaay Whhaaaat?!)
Why is it we don't stand up? Why is it we arent still fighting for Human Rights? There is so much to be done.

God has given me several opportunities, since then, to have really great conversations with people regarding this. For instance, one that I had with a friend at work was about being the change. He was telling me about his struggle with the church (LDS) and how he fits into it. I gave him some other Non-denominational options, then it hit me!

I told him "what if people like you are who we, the gays, need in the church to be the change - to plant the seeds, and to assist in changing the culture. How amazing would it be, if you stood up to give your testimony on how you believe the LDS church true; however,...?"

I said he might be taken aside, but he may plant seeds that change people's perceptions and open their hearts that start the change. (Woah... that was definitely an assisted talk.)

"Hmmmm...." he said. He is a cool kat, and I believe people come into our lives for a reason. I have learned a lot from him, already, in the few short weeks I've been there.

The rest of the month was filled with girls nights, Bunko, Top Golf, St. Patrick's Day, birthday celebrations, bedroom restorations, softball tournaments and of course soccer.

Life is good right now, the best it's been yet. So I'm breathing it in, being present, and experiencing it all.

'Til next time. Cheers.