I used to have high expectations that magically, being in a new place would transform all aspects of my life. This is when I was desiring to leave New England. Reference my last post on creating your own magic. I’ve realized no place or person can do that for you but you. The outcome of what you desire will be the result of you, no More, no Less. In 2009 when I moved to New Hampshire in particular, I had a vision for my life. That vision was very small sighted, because at 21 I was still figuring out my overall goals and dreams. I worked a full time job from age 18, bypassing the go straight to college thing because it didn’t work out that way for me in LA after graduating high school.
After taking a walk with a friend the other day, it dawned on me that I finally do love being here. Mostly because I haven’t wanted to set roots anywhere else, for a while now. I’ve been fortunate to travel to and experience various parts of the US whether through business trips or personal vacations.
I’ve also been able to escape to Canada, a short 4 hours from my address in NH!
However, I finally found a home, location and community that feels like home. I have moved, a lot within the region. People used to joke that “you’ve had more addresses, than I’ve changed my underwear “. Yikes for you bro! All jokes aside, I suddenly feel settled because you do have to find what works for you and I was pulled to this region so after having a baby and truly blooming here, why would I so suddenly want to change that? You’re not settled no matter where you go until your physical and spiritual relationships are settled. Settlement in your heart gives you the ability to hone in closer to what it is you are looking for in a place and for your life.
I was being unrealistic because what I didn’t love about New England had nothing to do with the region but people mostly. The problem with that though, it was out of my control to some extent. Look, this region has a certain type of clique vibe that I so hardly tried to break into. However, that’s not necessary when you decide to bring your own light and do YOU. When you do you, surprise surprise, you attract what is for you. New Hampshire is not here to be my friend, but to be a place where me and my little family can thrive and that it is. My zip code is one of the most desirable for elementary schools not just in New England, but in America. America has had its challenges, I admit. However, it’s done a lot for me and people closest to me.
Have you ever thought that perhaps you’re some place for a reason? I feel like my time here isn’t up. I don’t need a region to be what it’s not, but I create what I want for myself wherever I go and I’m doing that here. Sure there is a lot to desire in the community aspect, however that is an opportunity! Until I’ve flipped every rock and turned every corner, I can’t say this place isn’t for me. I’ve reached some of the highest peaks here both figuratively and literally and same goes for low. I’ve found a way to love this place though. When I realized I couldn’t nor was it my job to change people, I guess it rubbed off in this area too. I have changed myself and my expectations and realize there is so so much to love that has nothing to do with anyone or anything else.
1. Opportunities Exist, not just for me, but my son. That matters to me! If I have made something of myself here, it is my responsibility to do the same for him and guide him the best way I can.
2. The Region Has So Much To Do. Beaches, mountains, lakes, resorts, nature. All of these align with what I love, down to the seasons. I love it all!
3. People Are Straightforward. I might not like you and you might not like me. We don’t fake it either. I can be kind, and keep it moving.
4. I’ve Built Friendships. Even if we don’t see each other all the time, they are here. Life gets busy, and I have been fortunate that at every stage of my life I’ve been able to connect in the way I’ve wanted to.
5. Location, location, location! The beach is an hour away, another country, 4 hours, Boston, 45 minutes, the mountains, less than 2 hours, lakes, within minutes, fresh seafood, down the street…doesn’t get any better!
New Hampshire is thrivable! I couldn’t see that before when my soul wasn’t settled and I was living in conditions not aligned with my peace. Now that it is, I found the right place to live within the region and I’ve rid myself of the things and relationships that no longer serve me, I’m able to find joy in what I have here and I don’t need New England to be What It Is Not, it is what it is and I’ve adjusted and found my own Nirvana. It is my home.
