So, I bought my first new car.

Written on September 2022

As we drove in to pick up my new car, the song sk8er boi by Avril Lavigne came on the radio. 

"Turn it up," I cheered." That was the first song I learned in English. EVER"

As I sang along, I enjoyed the ride in the convertible[not mine, by the way]. And at that moment, I couldn't help but think about how much of a full-circle moment I was experiencing.

Nineteen years ago, I stepped into an English classroom for the first time. 

That day, we would be learning the lyrics to the song sk8er boi. I was in 6th grade, and I used to love Avril Lavigne. Like, posters on the walls and everything. My poor sister, whom I shared a room with, can attest to that. [lol]

I fell in love with the language and never looked back. 

It blows my mind how much water has passed under this bridge, and I cannot believe that I am where I am in my life. Little sixth-grade Ricardo had no idea of what was to come. And sometimes, it does not feel like this is supposed to be my life.

I know I didn't get here alone, and I don't even know whom I should start thanking first, so I'll keep all my thanks private.

But I don't know why I feel this need to share with the world the following message: "it will all fall into place."

I know it's hard to believe that you should keep moving forward, and I know that sounds like a cliche, but please, KEEP IT MOVING. Do not stop. You're going to get there.

I like to joke about how I don't jog as a political statement; because there's nowhere you could go jogging that I can't reach by walking. And as I write this, I have to say that's an excellent way to approach life. Yes, we all would love to have every wish granted immediately, but unfortunately, that's not how it goes. BELIEVE ME. So just keep going!

You'll get there. And you will find your people along the way. 

And if you can't jog towards your dreams, walk.