what i've learned since graduating from college

wow. I haven't posted on this blog since January 2022 and now it's almost January 2023. It's been a wild year, to say the least. I graduated from university (officially a Texas Ex now)!! and started a big girl job!

I want to share some things I've learned since May, for myself to look back on and for anyone else entering this stage of life and needing some encouragement. This list is by no means extensive but a summary of lessons that have been on my mind.

// People show and receive love in different ways. Learn how to love those around you and be gentle with yourself when you fall short.

// Allow time to get to know yourself. Self-reflection leads to growth.

// Friendships change. and that's okay.

// Prayer looks different without the comfort of daily mass and campus ministry resources. But nothing given to God is ever wasted.

// Visits home are so much sweeter and make you grateful for your family.

// See the beauty in our similarities and our differences as humans.

// Don't be afraid to ask for help.

// You are not above nor beneath anyone.

// Life is just going to get busier. Keep in touch with your people through a voice memo, a FaceTime call, a letter, or a simple text. Let them know that you're thinking of them even if you don't have time in your schedule to hang out in person. Some friends and I have started making a shared iCloud photo album where we upload snapshots/videos from our daily lives. It has helped make us feel closer even when we aren't hanging out every week like we did during college.

// Share life with those around you. Be where your feet are.

// Share the hardships because you may never know that someone else is struggling with the same thing as you if you hadn't had the courage to share.

// Put yourself out there. Try new things. Make the most out of your evenings and weekends!

// A simple invitation matters. The worst they can say is no.

// Stay attentive to where God is working in your life. Because He is.

// Capture the moments! Life is worth remembering and experiencing as it is.

// Have things to look forward to but don't get caught up in the mundanity. Yes, work life may be boring but you have so much to be grateful for.

Even though I haven't made a formal blog post in a while, I'm still active on Instagram (follow @pieceofreeceblog) where I've compiled a little 'collection of words'. It's a way to share my subconscious thoughts about life in a more instantaneous way and gather words to inspire and make people think. hope to see you around :)