Bittersweet Beginnings

Here I am, 2 sleeps away from fulfilling a life long dream; I start University. At my age, choosing this path hasn't been an easy one. It took and will continue to take a lot of sacrifice, time, and hard work. I feel an mix of emotions, excitement, fear, joy, anxiety, and sadness.

It makes me miss her so much knowing that she was there before me, walking the same halls, sitting in the same classrooms, learning what I will learn. I know this is the right path for me, but I also know that a part of me is doing this for her. She is my inspiration and I want nothing more than to finish that which she couldn't.

I know that during those times when I am bogged down with papers and homework, and feel like I just want to quit because I'm so overwhelmed, I will think of her. I will remember her tenacity and strength, and her ability to go on no matter how difficult it got. She was a fighter, and I know that she would be there encouraging me on my path, and never let me give up.

In my mind's eye, I see her beautiful face,smiling, and telling me how proud she is of me. This will be the image I will turn to when I feel like I can't do it anymore. I will remember that no matter how tough it gets, she went through so much more and she never quit. School, work, and cancer.......she did it all until the universe cruelly took her away.

I dedicate this journey to her.......

I miss you everyday.

Dawn Golden 'All That I Want'