[Young John Candy, beside Niagara Falls.] I have been struggling with difficult emotions of late. Anger that I don’t know what to do with. Sadness that can swallow me up. Doubt that erodes my self confidence. It’s really the social fabric of my life that is protecting me: Carlos giving me advice (and space) at work, Bluefish’s hilarious story about her pigeon phobia, Jose encouraging my photography (Jose is amazing photographer, the middle photo is his, @aesopcr7 on Instagram) big thank you to my friends.
“I appreciate Arthur’s humor. Arthur always asks if you need something. I really appreciate Arthur’s positive attitude even when I’m having a bad day, he can always see the brighter side and put a smile back on my face. I’d like to thank Arthur for all the work he does in Xoco. He works his ass off and it shows. I’m really proud to be working alongside someone so dedicated to our homemade chocolate. Thank you so much for always being there for us and for believing in me and giving me the chance to try new things. Thank you for encouraging me to believe in myself.”
For my performance review at work, my co-managers and chefs, and those working in my department and related departments, wrote these appreciations for me (this part comes after much “room for improvement” stuff!) It’s embarrassing to share, but re-reading helps me remember my #1 goal to be a positive person. I appreciate the people in my life for the same reasons my coworkers appreciate me, now more than ever. You guys are the ones putting the smile back on my face. Thank you for encouraging me to believe in myself.
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You are an inspiration to almost all you meet. You have faith in us, and so will have faith in you, and that is something you can’t buy, you just have to earn. Vive l’independance!