The "Choice"

Growing up really is a choice. Growing up – as in, not running to mommy and daddy every time something goes run. Being able to pick yourself up, put things into perspective YOURSELF, because we’re young, we’re only going to keep falling, and I feel like the older you get, the harder you’ll on your ass.

By doing Peace Corps I realized I made the decision to actively “grow up.” The biggest change from college Gioconda is that I don’t call my mom when I’m crying anymore. I don’t cry a lot but when it does happen or I’m in the dumps, I mentally take charge of my thoughts and get myself through whatever problem I have. I’ve truly learned how to self-soothe. Of course it’s nice to have a hug when you’re sad, but most of the time, when we’re adults, we won’t have someone to give us that hug. It’ll be up to us to keep walking forward. I like that I’ve grown a tough skin.