[6 of 13] Julie's Deleted Posts - The Kindness of Strangers

[Note from iwhyawli. In this post especially, it is clear that the relationship at TWOP/GWOP has been established and is secure and has been for quite some time. ]

The Kindness of Strangers
June 30, 2008

This is the post that I made on May 3 on my personal blog that I referenced in "Do Unto Others". Although I was referring to J&K in the second to last paragraph, I didn't come out and say anything to warrant the comment that was left.

The past two weeks have been a bit of a whirlwind. I can't believe the range of emotions I have gone through, but now that things have calmed down a bit, I look back and I'm truly surprised where this journey has taken me.I opened myself up to people I've never met. I took a stand for something I believe in, and I stayed true to who I am. It's been quite a roller coaster ride, and it's amazing how you take a step in one direction and a chain of events beyond your control leads you somewhere you didn't even know existed.

When I first stepped out beyond my comfort zone, I had a goal in mind, and I never imagined things would have turned out the way they have.I've gone through some very stressful, frightening events, but on my journey, I've met some truly amazing people. I'm not sure how this adventure will end, but along the way, I have gained trust and friendship in people that I've never even met. I'm amazed at the kindness that some strangers have shown me, and this just reaffirms to me that although the world can be cruel, there are still good people out there. People who are willing to fight for justice and put their necks out there to help someone they don't really even know.

I've also learned that when put in certain circumstances, your true character will be revealed. It's easy to keep up an image when things are going well, but when push comes to shove--how do you respond? I love the quote "Adversity doesn't build character...it reveals it". I feel very deeply that is it possible to overcome the sinful responses of human nature and make conscious decisions to change and be a better person. It's very easy to use the past as a crutch, but we each make decisions in life and have the choice to be the person we want to be. There is nothing that bothers me more than to hear the excuse "that's just who I am". I think that's pathetic and weak and the easy way out. I know many people who have chosen to break the cycle, made the decision to be different, and created a better life for their family. It's not impossible. It isn't easy, but it can be done.

So as I look back on the events of the last few weeks, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned. I'm happy to say that I have stayed true to myself. I've maintained my stand on the importance of honesty and trust and somewhere along the way I have made new friends. I truly believe that everything happens for a reason, and although there have been some bumps in the road, I was meant to meet these wonderful ladies and form new friendships.