Being close to family, friends important

When I was a little kid I was sure I would have my life exactly where I wanted it as I neared my 24th birthday. Little me was wrong.

It has recently hit me just how complicated life is. Don't get me wrong. I knew it would never be easy, but twists thrown as we enter adulthood have left me baffled.

We spend the first 18(ish) years of our life with mostly the same surroundings. Most of us knew our classmates starting in preschool and built bonds up until we graduated high school.

We become attached to our classmates, and what seems like lasting friendships suddenly are torn apart as we try to build a new life for ourselves.

Some went off to college in varying parts of the state and country, while others start their adult lives with spouses and babies.

Those that went off to college have to start over completely by making new friends and getting accustomed to new surroundings.

We spend the next two to four years building bonds as everyone around us is also struggling to restart their lives away from family and the only friends we have ever known.

Some students have to go through the process more than once as they transfer from one college to the next, hoping to complete a bachelor's degree or attending grad school.

Then, we are forced to repeat the process all over again. We have to find big kid jobs, make new friends and find a place to live.

So far, I've found this last step the hardest part.

Do you move away to some exotic place you've never been in hopes of creating a new life for yourself? Or do you stick close to home? The only place you've ever felt comfortable.

When I started taking journalism classes I had this absurd dream of working at Rolling Stone Magazine, meeting all types of extravagant people and writing about the one thing I've always loved but never excelled in: Music.

Research showed I would have to move far away from my family, again. I have such a close relationship with my sister, best friend, parents and grandparents I couldn't stand the thought of moving hundreds or thousands of miles away from them.

I tried 100 miles away once and found myself quickly coming back home.

Following my dreams meant leaving behind the people who have cheered me on as I juggled an excessive load of classes and work hours.

I find myself missing the friends made on my journey to this point, but obligations and lack of funds make it hard for me to make it back to see them.

On the bright side, I am so blessed to have such an understanding and loving family as I continue to try to find my way. It was perfect timing as I decided to come back to my hometown, and find this job that suits me so well.

Sabrina is a staff writer for the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached by email at swestfall@gcdailyworld.com or by telephone at 847-4487.