The epiphany...

I can't believe I've been in Orlando almost a month or how quickly the time has passed. It's hard being an inherently shy person in a new city. I love the job and everyone's been super friendly. I even had a "date". I use that term loosely. But Orlando's not L.A.

This week, an email from someone inspired an epiphany.

L.A. was like a certain guy I fell for at first sight and chased, ridiculously for several years until the stars finally aligned. He was everything I ever wanted. I adored, respected, and admired him and cherished his conversation. I actually started thinking about the future. But the truth of the matter was, he never felt the same way back. He never had to. In our relationship, I did all the work.

In all that time I spent in L.A., I made amazing friends, had some wonderful adventures, and amazed at the beauty and opportunity living there afforded. But, in those seven years, I also nearly died my first week living there. Week one was spent living out of a room at St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank rather than my apartment. I collectively spent at least a year's salary on medical bills. I had several car accidents. I gained a bulging disc and another herniated disc in my neck. The city was sending me a signal.

The truth of the matter is that L.A. never loved me. It liked me. Sometimes.

So I'm here now. With Orlando. Wearing my bruised heart on my sleeve. Feeling tentative and slightly judgmental, but open to a new relationship with Orlando. It might not be the romantic love I felt for L.A., but maybe this one will feel real.

-scg