What is Your Truth?

This an old speech and say what you want about her now but it worthy of watching. It should make you think about how you live everyday. Do you dance in the misery of others? What is your truth?

Heartbroken

I am heartbroken. A special person died this morning and I....feel so empty.

I have written about my Familia de Cubano many times here. Salsa has become so much a part of my life that it is strange to look back and not have a good memory that does not include someone who dances with me. 

I learned to dance Cuban style salsa from a wonderful couple. The man affectionately known as "The Papi" and his partner. A woman who has always laughed and opened her home and heart to me like I was indeed family. They adopted me, took me under their wings, opened their home for holidays and gatherings and lifted me up whenever I felt down.

In the past 8 years I have grown to know and love them both like family. 

Today...this morning....one half of that couple has left this world....my heart is broken. As I type through tears I remember the good memories, her extremely bright blue (and sometimes green) eyes and the smile she shared with everyone. No one has a laugh as infectious as hers.

My life was/is better because of them both, because of her generosity. My Cuban family has suffered a tremendous loss. My heart breaks for The Papi and it is so very heavy today.

I take a little comfort that she is not in pain anymore. And I am extremely lucky to have known her and shared the years of her life. She touched so many....

...but I am heartbroken.

Our last words to each other...

I said, "Smooches hun, love you. Feel better!"

Her almost whispered response, "Smooches. Love you too!"

Birthday Reflections 2013

Where does the time go? I have a habit of taking care of everyone except myself and this year is no different. I found myself in a bit of a situation on my birthday. It was one of the worst days ever! Thank God it is over. I spent the day dealing with a dying car, tow trucks, arguments and disagreements. Not what a celebration of another year of life should be. All of which is making me withdraw, sit back and reflect on my part in it all. Time to make changes, make an assessment of what, where and how and keep living life. Happier..

I am researching cars now to replace my slowly dying 14 year old ride. When did cars become so expensive?!? Even the entry level models are more expensive than I expected. I am not the type to go out and get a luxury brand just to show people my 'status' or lifestyle. I want a car that will last, with little to no repair costs and a reasonable price tag. I have been searching for a few days. My luck is not so good as of right now. Hoping my car will last until I find that great deal I am looking for. Meanwhile every trip is started and ended with a prayer and a "thank you Jesus!"

I have a new job and a new career path. I took a lateral move from the only career I have ever had to hopefully make a better move for myself. It has been about three months now and I feel like a teenager. There is so much to learn and man, people will try their best to run over you in this position. I am standing my ground and holding my own now but at first...well, things were more than a little hairy. I would come home every day thinking I might not have made the best move. I will feel even better after a promotion. That should come within the next 6 months after my training period is complete.

I hope all is well with you blog fam. As for me...things will get better. There is always peace after the storm. In fact, some of the most peaceful moments come after violent storms.


Until Next Time,

Peace & Blessings...