Entry #2- Changing Course

 

Changing Course: Rediscovering Passion and Purpose

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So, let’s talk about careers.  Does anyone REALLY know what they want to do for the rest of their lives at 18 when they start college?  I know I didn’t!  Sometimes, we must follow our passions and hearts to make our best decisions.  My passion just so happened to be traveling.  I wanted to travel and see other parts of the world and different cultures.  I learned I could be a traveling CNA with only a few months of coursework, so I decided to do that. 

 

I was able to travel to South Dakota and Montana as a traveling CNA, but again, is this what I wanted to do for the rest of my life? Definitely NOT! This career helped steer me in another direction, and I soon went on to training as a dialysis tech and was able to continue as a traveling dialysis tech. 

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This stepping stone opened me up to some of the best experiences of my life.  As you may already know, my love for chasing waterfalls and their spiritual impact on me, moving to different islands in Hawaii, was a dream come true.  I loved the culture, trying new foods, and the many adventures, good and bad.  I chased those falls, rode on helicopters, and even almost drowned a time or two, which educated me on ocean safety, amongst other things. Eventually, life throws you curve balls, and you must reassess your life’s choices.  

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Settling down.  I knew I wouldn’t be able to travel the world as I once had after my greatest blessing was born: my son, Eli. So, where do we go from here?  Many of you may be in this same boat, or maybe even where I was at the beginning, and may still be deciding which way to go.  For me, it led me back home to school and to starting over to give my son stability.  Many of you may still be on that journey of deciding your next steps, but just remember to follow your passion and heart to make the best decisions for yourself.  

Entry #1- Chasing Waterfalls

Chasing Waterfalls: A Journey of Serenity and Discovery

Aloha, readers! As I begin this blogging journey, I would like to introduce myself through one of my most cherished hobbies – exploring waterfalls. When I'm not in the bustling chaos of daily life, I find peace and healing in the serenity of cascading water hidden away in the heart of nature. All of the images are from my personal collection.

Wailua Falls, Kauai, Hawaii

Waterfalls have always been where I feel the most spiritual connections, not just as stunning natural wonders but as tranquil sanctuaries that transport me away from the hustle and bustle of the world. I aim to share the enchantment and allure of chasing waterfalls and its profound impact on my life. My waterfall-seeking adventures have taken me to various different places. Two destinations I've lived in stand out in my memory – the lush island of Kauai and the vibrant Oahu, both in Hawaii. These two islands have the most beautiful waterfalls I've ever found.

Ho'opi'i Falls, Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is a paradise for waterfall lovers like me. The island's rainforests have numerous waterfalls that seem to appear around every corner. My most memorable hikes in Kauai led me to the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, hidden in Kilauea. The journey to this hidden waterfall involved a kayak trip down the river and a challenging hike. When I finally reached it, the power and beauty of nature left me in a spiritual trance. It was a healing moment of pure serenity that's hard to describe.

Secret, Secret Falls, Kauai, Hawaii

Oahu also is full of hidden waterfalls. Hamama Falls is another treasured memory of mine. When I reached Hamama Falls, the difference between the urban world and this natural beauty made me feel like I wasn't on the same planet. It's truly amazing how these hidden treasures can exist in the most unexpected places. Nothing is more tranquil than listening to the powerful water falling.

Hamama Falls, Oahu, Hawaii

To help you understand my hobby of chasing waterfalls, I need to clarify what I'm doing. The power of waterfalls is not just their mesmerizing beauty and soothing sound; it is a journey into the deeper parts of one's soul. Waterfalls are a source of healing and connect us with nature. Remove your shoes, close your eyes, touch a tree, take a deep breath, and let nature enter you.

Rainbow Falls, Kauai, Hawaii