Who I am and what matters most?

Well, that’s an interesting question isn't it? Simply put, I don’t think I truly know “who I am,” but I do know a few things that matter most. Honestly, I think it’s completely normal not to know exactly who you are, and maybe we never truly know, but I guess that’s the “beauty” behind it, as they say.

Ok, let’s get down to the basics, that part I do know. I come from a small town (Cornwall) and the smallest province in Canada, Prince Edward Island. Enough said? Nah. Islanders are great, if you give us a chance. Maybe that speaks to who I am, I truly love being from “the Island.” We get our "roots" from our hometown, and I like the ones I’ve got.  

Growing up, I was known as … a “goody-two shoes.” I know what you’re thinking- “yeah right,” but seriously, I was. Why? Well, I was that girl in high school with the minivan. Hey now, don’t freak out… the mini-van was cool. In fact, we had a group of friends that hit up every party in that thing… and we were known as the “MVC” or “Mini Van Crew.” Of course, seeing as it was my van (ok… it was my mom’s); I was known as the “captain” (literally) of the MVC. This was fine by me; I made it to every party in it, until we sold er, which was devastating. But that’s another story.  

Alright, so why does that make me known as a “goody-two shoes?” Good question. Seeing as I always drove, I never drank. It’s funny, because I’m not even sure why I never drank throughout high school. Our group of friends was always great in offering to drive to parties, but I would always refuse and let them know that I didn't mind driving. And from time to time, have a few laughs at their expense. What? Drunk people are really funny. And now that I do consume the odd “Pepsi,” I've experienced both sides.

To be honest, my choice to not drink in high school wasn't based on one of those “I want to make my parents proud,” or “It’s illegal,” reasons. In a geeky way, it was more of an “I want to make myself proud” reason. 

But hey, let’s not forget about my family, because they were (and still are) a huge part of my upbringing and life. My parents in particular always taught my sister and I right from wrong, but thinking back, they never really had to tell us about the dangers of drinking, smoking, and drugs. I just knew not to do them. And really, I’m proud of myself. I stuck to my guns in high school (which isn't an easy thing to do). For some reason, I just knew that I had more important things going on in my life, like spending time with family and friends, sports (which consumed my high school life), and keeping my grades up. I’m honestly pretty impressed with the amount of parties I was physically able to attend, and stay awake at. Aside from sleep and school, I was always busy with soccer, track, and badminton practices.

Am I making any sense here? I’m sorry if I’m just rambling, but I do tend to be a rambler. I guess staying true to myself and “sticking to my guns” was my big motivating factor back then and today. I’m someone that will go against the grain if I personally don’t believe in something, and I’m not afraid to do so.

I do have to admit something, because after reading this through, I’m making myself out to be this perfect person (who trust me, I’m not). I feel like before most of my decisions (really important ones anyway) I contemplate WWCD. 

Oh that’s funny, you've never heard of WWCD? “What would Cheryl do?” Who the heck is Cheryl you ask? She’s the most inspiring, motivational, empowering individual I know. Simply put? My mother.