An Open Letter to This Summer

Hello again,

Historically, summers and I haven’t had the greatest track record. My summers have consisted of unfamiliar obstacles, ethically sticky situations and just poor decisions (that I’d rather not discuss). But they have taught me unique and important lessons in ways I never anticipated. I’ve learned how to trust myself, how to apologize and how to forgive myself.  A lot has changed in the past few years: I moved from Florida to Massachusetts for college then transferred to a college in Virginia.

Now I feel like I am so ready for your arrival, the challenges you’ll bring and the new experiences and people.

I love going to school in Virginia, but as a native Floridan I miss all of the stereotypical Florida things you can’t find anywhere else. I miss oranges and white sand beaches and even the alligators. I miss the smell of sunscreen and how the beach looks at night. I miss these things because I associate them all with my best friends and family. Life has pulled us in all different directions and I am so proud of what they have accomplished. I’m ready for us all to be united again—even if it only lasts for a few weeks. Let the chaos ensue, pals.

This summer I want to recharge, get eight hours of sleep every night and read lots of books. I want to spend time with people who mean a lot to me. I want to have time to bake muffins and plan for the future. I even want to craft things. I’m not really artsy or creative but I want to try.

I hope this summer brings purpose, excitement and new opportunities.

I’ll be spending most of this summer in New York City. I want to learn how to navigate the subway and how not to be afraid of big rats. I also want to gain a palate for New York pizza. Ultimately, I just want to just feel like I understand what it means to be a New Yorker.

I want this summer to be healing to my friends that need it and bring a sense of hope. For my globe-trotting friends, I want them to be safe and most of all, happy and curious. For my working friends, I hope they enjoy what they do, learning lots and feeling appreciated in the process. I want this summer to bring nothing but the best for them and bring things into their lives that they don’t even know they need.

Bring the changes, challenges, doubt and fear.  I’m ready for whatever comes next.

Sincerely,

Codi