Old Chapters, New Beginnings

This weekend my 2 and1/2 year adventure in Tampa came to an end. Before I embark on a new chapter in my life, I’d like to reflect on some of the experiences in the city where I experienced many firsts and the place that was responsible for reigniting my spiritual journey.

I ended up in Tampa because I applied for a job that I honestly didn’t think I was going to get. Why? Because I didn’t have the 5-7 years’ experience in eCommerce that they were looking for, but I applied anyway because I wanted to get in that field. I was surprised when I was offered the job (although I should have known it was God, but my spiritual life was very little back then) and that’s how my adventure began in Tampa, January 2015.

At the time of my move, I was in a serious relationship with my boyfriend of 5 years; the plan was to take the job in Tampa to help propel my career and then rejoin him back in Columbus, OH. Sounds like a great plan, right? I thought I had it all figured out and that was going to be it for me in a nutshell. Well, in September of 2015 when I was making preparations to go back up North to carry out this plan, it all came to an end. I experienced my first heartbreak being 27 years old after receiving a call that at the time made it seem as if my world was ending; my boyfriend broke up with me for reasons that at the time seem to make no sense at all. It was hard on me and it took me almost a year to fully recover, but looking back I’m glad it happened for if it didn’t – I wouldn’t have gotten reconnected to the one who loves me most, Jesus Christ.

The problem with my previous relationship was that I placed that man above the Lord, he was my idol. It took me a while to see that and accept it for what it was – but that’s the truth. It’s no joke when they say that our God is a jealous God; I clearly got to see it firsthand. I am happy that God ended that relationship because that was the only way I was able to wake up and reignite my relationship with the Lord. I started to pray more (every chance I could), not one minute prayers to ask the Lord to bless my day, but deep meaningful prayers. I started to read my Bible more, began listening to sermons, read more spiritual books, and wanted to spend more time getting to know Him. It was a struggle for sure, but I’m the happiest I’ve ever been because even when things are rough I’m filled with his peace. I know the Lord hears my prayers, not some, but every single one of them. My entire experience in Tampa was basically me going through a development phase and while some days it was unbelievably painful, I am extremely thankful for it.  Thanks to the Lord; I am now, ready and prepared for this new adventure. Might I add that I’m also so incredibly excited!

Things I’ve learned:

• God is a very jealous God.
• When you are healing, the devil will send you exactly what you want to interrupt your progress – be careful of this because often times its worse than what you’ve already been through.
• Pray always, because prayer works.

• Seek God always and include him in every part of your life.
• In your circle of friends should be someone who you can rely on to help you with your spiritual journey.
• God’s timing is perfect, always and forever will be.
• There is always something to be thankful for.
• Make time for God – communicate with him daily.
• Whatever your dream is, go after it and let God do the rest.

Finally:

I grew up in Tampa, as in I became more mature and started to accept things and people for exactly who they are. I no longer care to entertain negativity but instead gravitate towards positivity and people/things that bring happiness, light, love, and positive energy into my life. I found my purpose here which is to help others by encouraging them, finding ways to bring small doses of love into their lives, helping others on their spiritual journey, and just being there for others in any which I can because that’s whats life is all about – helping others.

I met some amazing people in Tampa and I know they’ll be lifelong friends. You all know who you are, you are all truly remarkable. Thank you for making my experience in Tampa filled with lots of laughs and adventures!

Thank you to the city where I went through the most challenging developmental phase of my life, which has now allowed me to be the happiest I’ve ever been. Thank you, Tampa and it’s not good bye, but see you later.