Point View

A little over four years ago, in April, I sat by the water in Brickell after dropping my things at the Hampton Inn. It was the night before I spent the day at KLA and gave a demo lesson to my would-be students. The sky was all blues and pinks and the air was humid. My skin was buzzing, my stomach jumbled, and I was trying to imagine what it would be like to live in this new city, one that I had a lot of preconceived notions about.

Now, Miami is my home (for better or worse). I often find myself complaining about it, or giving a disclaimer when I mention that I live here. But I should probably start changing my thinking about it, because ultimately, it’s my home for the foreseeable future, and I’ve enjoyed my years here so far.

That day in April set in motion a multitude of positive changes that I could never have expected:

• I got the job at KLA and spent four incredible years there, learning and growing as an educator and teacher mentor.
• I built many friendships with incredible women, most of whom I met at KLA.
• I got better at driving (big old SUVs) amidst the crazy Miami drivers.
• I started copywriting for a former student’s dad’s business, which turned into a full-blown second job.
• I ended a long-term relationship and moved into my own apartment, a gorgeous studio within walking distance of work and my best friend’s place.
• I met my partner, my rock, my best friend. The biggest and best surprise.
• I became a dog aunt, and later, a dog mom.
• I made the difficult decision to leave teaching and pursue a different career.
• I embarked on the journey of healing my mind and body from everything teaching had put it through.
• I started a new job as client engagement manager for a mission-driven student travel company.

All of these (and plenty more which I can’t think of right now) had Miami as their backdrop. And funnily enough, this exact spot in Brickell, a block away from my current apartment, this lovely spot by the bay, which I only today realized is named Point View, is a spot I came to again and again—alone, with friends, with dogs, and with my love.

In two days we’ll move to a different neighborhood, one I’m excited to explore, and a change I’m ready for. But we both agree—we’re going to miss these walks and this view.

I’m going to miss Point View. I’m so grateful that it’s here, and was here, for me all these years. I wonder where my next spot will be.