note to self….

Sometimes….I speak to myself.  I say Rubi Z, don’t you dare lose heart.  Don’t you dare stop caring and stop dreaming.  Don’t you dare silence what your heart wants to live out.  Remember that media does not define your value.  Remember that on the other side of the computer are REAL people just like you.  What do you want to say to them? Don’t you dare settle for the status quo.  Don’t you dare get lost in the mundane and don’t you dare conform into someone else to impress someone else.  Don’t compare yourself and your life to anyone.  Stay on your own course.  Don’t become envious-if you feel your heart become envious or want something that is not yours to want-STOP and check yourself before you wreck yourself.  I say, Rubi it is not your time…just wait…just work hard…just stay focused….don’t lose heart…don’t get weary….stay present…love hard…and trust in the Lord ALWAYS.  Don’t for one second start trusting in yourself-YOU WILL FAIL.  There is not enough will power to change the plans of God.  Trust His plan for your life…after all, He created you.  Don’t you forget you are more than your career, you are more than your calling.  You are not perfect so embrace your flaws and share them with those who want to see them.  Don’t forget you’re a daughter and your mother needs to hear your voice and see your face….and you need her hugs and her amazing food and her comfort.  Don’t forget you are a sister and family will always remind you that you are nothing super special….you are that little girl they grew up with…and their perspective will always humble you.  Remember that you have a husband that needs your words of life and your partnership and help.  Remember that your kids are waiting for you and they do not care what type of house they live in or the car you drive or the career you have….they want YOU and no money in the world and no luxury in the world will replace the moments shared with MOM.  Don’t forget you need your friends….the ones that believe in you and encourage you to grow, but also talk to you when you’ve strayed too far.  They also need you to grow-don’t isolate-don’t forget them.  Don’t you ever forget where you came from.  Don’t forget you were a girl with a dream and a desire to push beyond others’ expectations.  Don’t forget that you exist for more than this.  Your career doesn’t define you-but you define it.  Rubi…don’t you dare forget.

Thank you so much Annie Vovan for these photos.  Thank you for seeing me, and capturing my heart. xoxoxo

Annie Vovan