As I reflect on the past few weeks, there are two quotes I’ve come across to which I most relate. The first reads:

I can’t seem to find its author, but I love this saying. It is both relevant and encouraging as I say goodbye to Il Sogno. After much consideration, I made the decision to resign from my current position as Director of Sales and Marketing. My choice was not in response to a better offer, nor another opportunity to live abroad (I wish!). It had nothing to do with my long hours or monthly weekend shifts, and was especially unrelated to my teammates. It did, however, have everything to do with following my heart.

Leaving a job without a definitive plan B is not only risky, it’s terrifying – especially when you’re entirely on your own and have some serious expenses! There exists an extraordinary comfort, however – an overwhelming peacefulness, even – when your abandonment of plan A is so powerfully driven by your dreams. It is my loves who set my soul on fire, and their wellbeing that keeps me brave.

When announcing my departure, I couldn’t help but cry as I assured our residents I adore them. I tear up recalling their reactions and my painfully sincere “You are the best part of my day.” I can only hope that I’ve made a fraction of the impact on them that they’ve had on me.. that they have no doubt that I love them, and that they’ve felt it every day.. and that if even in fleeting moments, I was able to make their days a little brighter and their hearts filled with contentment.

Doubt is unavoidable and fear can be commanding, but both pale in comparison to the courage of ambition. As Erin Hanson, author of my second new favorite quote, writes:

In true form, I plan to fly.