I can only be me

Please do not tell me what I need or what to do--I will not respond well.

Please do not expect me to act like you-- I can only be me.

Please see me for who I am--not who you want me to be.

I spent 6 years away from home figuring out who I am as a person and growing into the woman I am today. I discovered I am a little selfish, a little controlling, and fiercely protective of others and myself. I root for the underdog, cry at human interest stories, and love romance novels. I am adaptable to any situation and I love being around people completely different from myself. I like sports and muesums. I like wine, tequila, and beer. I love to cook and take care of others.

I enjoy hard work. I don't make excuses for myself or others. I am very self-contained and afraid of being hurt. I don't want to be the center of attention at a party but I do want to lead. I love being around people but I get energy from being by myself. I don't make myself vulnerable to others and I don't trust easily. I like organization, structure, and strategy. I like reading while drinking a cup of coffee and lazing around. I like going to bed early and waking up early.

I am confident in who I am and I can't be anyone else. I am not as open and carefree as others; I am serious and grounded. I love fiercely! I don't respect others because they have authority, I respect those who earn it. I value integrity, strength of character, and stability. I find joy in the little moments and happiness in belonging and laughter.

I need to grieve in a way that sits well with my soul--not yours. I can't and I won't pretend to be anything other than who I am. I need you to allow me to be who I am and, hopefully, you'll begin to understand who I've become.