i was never going to share a picture here, on line of myself.

it could be ’cause i was shy…or that i am aware that this is the internet…and anyone can see what i post.

but i have done a 180 tonight.  a realization that i just don’t give a damn.

why?

because i AM proud of my accomplishments

because despite everything i have been going through as of late, i have still been true to me

because it matters…alot.

because for once i can look at myself and feel…OK

because it’s always ok to strive and look ahead and want more

because i want to show you all, just how very proud i am of myself
my hard work
my ambition
my dedication
my trials and tribulations

because it matters.
every single bit of it.

all the tears, the nay sayers, the people who doubted me

all of it.

here i am, getting to where i want to be

and no one can bring me down
no one will make me stop.

because

because i am so worth it…and nothing anyone can say can change my mind.
you will never bring me down.

because this is what hope, success and hard work looks like

because i love all of you who have supported my journey.

i show you….me.  the real me.

because…for the first time in my life, i feel like me.

because i respect myself, and love myself.

and this is what it looks like.