This post has nothing to do with my trip to Italy and everything to do with my support community. As stated in a previous post, I have made a conscious decision to distance myself from technology and my life back home while here so as to experience things fully. To be present in the moment as we like to say often in this profession. This is one thing I have been sticking to. My diet on the other hand..

There are moments in our life when we feel overwhelming emotions and are brought to tears. Happiness, sadness, joy, anger. Whatever your pick is. I rarely have these moments in my life, but I believe they are the most beautiful and the true gems. Moments ago when I sat down for the first time in a few days to check my email and other things, I was met with the most beautiful of sights- pure and undying love; support and adoration; playfulness and humor. In short, all the makings of a masterpiece. What did I find? I'm glad you asked. I found these:

A photo story of my colleagues. The faith they have in me and the support they provide me are beyond anything a single person could fathom. I dedicate as much of my success to them as I do anyone else in my life. They have helped me to grow as a person and a professional. They have shown me what it means to love and nurture a student and a child. They have shown me what it means to be passionate about your work. They have shown me what it means to make an impact. So I thank you- each and every one of you. You are amazing role models and your students are beyond blessed to have you advocating for them. I am beyond blessed to have the pleasure of working with you.

Thank you to my mother for compiling that for me. You always know just how to tug at my heart strings. I am proud of your technological skills and am still trying to decide whether or not you were just trying to show them off. I love you.

One thing I have found during this trip is the importance of support in our lives. We can only do so much alone before we require the support or assistance of another person. It is not about being independent and making our own way, it is about embracing those around us and all they have to offer in order to enhance the experience. There are billions of people in this world for a reason. Embrace it. Evolve.

I have the afternoon free tomorrow, so I will throw up a post about our most recent adventures for some entertainment. This was weighing heavy on my heart, so I felt the overwhelming urge to post it immediately while the emotions were still fresh.

Hang in there, America- I shall return at some point to restore order.