Going The Extra Mile

 I've worked at the same job, in the same place for over 2.5 years now, living on my own for the vast majority of this time. I'd like to share some personal reflections from my own experiences. 

-It is far too easy to become detached and isolated. Not just from people, but events, different places of the country, etc... 

-You only get what you give. Yes there has to be a balance of give and take; and we all need personal time and space. Nonetheless, I find that when I go out of my own way to check up on things at work or reserve some time to organize things in my personal life, I'm rewarded beyond all expectations. 

-No one is an island. I'm still working on truly learning this one. Similar to the first point, it's much easier to live rent-free in the confines of my own head, than to actively reach out to others. Especially when there is a need involved. 

-Travel is one of the great antidotes to racism/biases. I believe Mark Twain said something similar. But how true it is! Before moving from Long Island, NY to Oregon, I thought the whole state was geographically very green and politically very blue. Turns out, there are real deserts here, along with our mountains, valleys and miles of coastline; and politically, some counties, especially in the south and east, make Texas look like a liberal lullaby. 

-So branch out! Take risks (To an extent) and let go of shit that doesn't serve you. You are your best asset.