Bye, Bye 2008

Bye, Bye 2008!
2008 was my most transformational year. I have grown so much and come to understand myself and my future more than I have ever had. The beginning of this year, started off in a relationship that was not meant to be. It was a sad but I had to move on. My graduation was in April and it was a nice day. My sister, A--- and my brother, J--- were not there and that was hard. My aunt and cousin came all the way from WI to surprise me and that was the greatest moment of 2008. It was a weird experience though, to walk when I was not completely done with school. I changed my major to Humanities and it was the greatest thing I could do. I was in History and even though it was a favorite subject of mine, it was not where I was meant to be. I was a mentor in a minority science and math camp again this year and that is when I fully realized that I my future lies with helping kids, to receive a better, brighter future. Later, this past summer I went to a conference where I met other Native students and it was so good to be surrounded by people that shared my same outlook for our future. It is hard sometimes, living every day feeling that you are the only one concerned about our future; as Natives. Recently, I was again questioning how do I really know that I am Navajo or Menominee? I don't speak, I don't live. Or so I am told. But, when it comes down to it; my ancestors who I pray to, understand me no matter what language I speak. I live Navajo and Menominee; but just off the reservation. My woods and my desert are always in my heart and that is what matters. Regardless, if I know WHY: I wear turquoise or why I let elders eat first..or why….me is me and that is Navajo and Menominee.
My life has changed so much this last year. I have the greatest friends, I have ever had and I am so thankful for them. I am so glad to have met my friend A--- and have my friend S--- in my life. A--- doesn't judge but makes me laugh. S--- is always there for me; no matter the time of day. My friends are so beautiful and I love them!! : D One person came into my life this year and then left but made an imprint on my heart and future that will last forever. I took chances that I would have never done before because of him. I took off to Oklahoma, with no money and no air conditioning in the middle of June. It was an experience. To say the least. I learned a lot about myself in that weekend. Also, when I went to Los Angeles; it was so perfect. Good people and good hearts. I am so happy to have met B---and W---. The best time of my year was spent on the beach.
I also had one of the hardest times in my life in my trip to Phoenix. I really don't care for the city and what happened there. I learned the meaning of "friends". I regret that trip more than anything and yet, it had to happen for me to KNOW. Learning and growing was never so hard for me. It was hurtful and still is. I will have a scar from Phx for a long time but it has already healed and is starting to fade.
I have graduated from college; it took ten years. I NEVER thought it would happen. And it did. So, that leaves me with my next goal. To work in social services with Native kids who need my help. I found a great volunteer position that has me go to the treatment center here in Abq that provides sweats, drum groups and arts to the Native kids that are there. I am so hopeful of my future now. I am with my sisters and mom and things could not be any better.
I wish all those who are in my life, the greatest ending to 2008 and the best beginning to 2009.
I am thankful and blessed for you all this year.