A year ago today Julio and I graduated from Guide Dogs for the Blind's Oregon campus's 103rd class. I can't believe it's been a year. I feel like I've changed a lot in that time. In some ways, I'm still processing what happened to me in training. There were so many lessons I learned. Even if I had not gotten a guide dog, I still learned a lot about myself. But the training/bonding with Julio really changed me. I think it's forced me to grow up somewhat. I think it opened my eyes. I learned that sometimes life sucks. And it happens to everyone. But more importantly, I learned that it's okay to feel. It's okay to have emotions. It's okay for me to be really happy. It's okay for me to cry. I still have to remind myself of these things.
I think I learned more about love, too. I learned that even when you love someone, they can still hurt you. I learned that sometimes the things we hate most and wish never happened are the very things that give us strength soon afterword.
Through Julio I learned how to walk proud. I learned that the pain others feel can become your own. I learned what it means to care for someone else. I learned that discipline does not mean that you don't love someone. I learned more about my energy threshhold and pain levels. I learned to take care of myself. I learned that prayer is really and truly helpful. I learned so much.
Julio's really changed my life. I like walking. I can honestly go on a walk for enjoyment now. I can smile as I feel the sun on my face and the wind in my hair. I can go places I'd never go normally with a cane. I can truly enjoy things.
I'm having a hard time summing this all up and it's rambling. But I love Julio, and I'm so proud we made it this far!
Hugs!
Nickie