Hey Love Bugs!
Life is a roller coaster of highs and lows, with moments that leave us exhilarated and others that test our resilience. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience both extremes—celebrating a milestone birthday in Los Angeles with my child (they/them) and sister and dealing with the challenges of a toxic office environment. Here’s a reflection on this journey of joy, adventure, and emotional growth.
Quik Story: Kimberly Harris-Fulks (*We do not own the rights to this music*)
A Magical Birthday in Los Angeles1
This year, my birthday was nothing short of magical. I decided to celebrate in Los Angeles, a city bursting with energy and excitement. The best part? Being able to visit my child and sister and share these special moments together.
Disneyland: A Dream Come True
Our adventure began at Disneyland, a place I had always dreamed of visiting. Stepping into the park for the first time felt surreal. The atmosphere was filled with joy and wonder, and I was as excited as a child. One of the highlights was getting a pair of Princess Tiana themed ears. Wearing them made me feel like royalty as we explored the enchanting world of Disney.
Exploring Iconic Los Angeles
The next few days were a whirlwind of iconic LA experiences. We drove along Mulholland Drive, taking in the breathtaking views of the city and winding through the hills. The Griffith Observatory offered stunning panoramic views, and we captured countless photos of the Hollywood sign in the distance. Each snapshot was a memory etched in time. I’ve been obsessed with making memories lately. Time is moving way too fast not to!
Hollywood Magic
No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a visit to the Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame. Being able to view the footsteps of legends, I felt a sense of awe and excitement. Souvenir shopping along the way added to the fun, with each trinket serving as a reminder of this incredible adventure.
A Heartfelt Celebration
The climax of my birthday celebration was a heartwarming gathering with my child and sister. We enjoyed a delicious birthday cake, laughing and sharing stories late into the night. The warmth and love in that room seemed to renew my spirit, making it a birthday I’ll cherish forever.
Emotional Farewell
As the days flew by, the time to leave approached. Saying goodbye to my youngest ‘baby’ was incredibly emotional. The bond we share is deep, and the thought of being apart again tugged at my heartstrings. I left Los Angeles with a heavy heart but also with a treasure trove of beautiful memories.
Confronting a Toxic Office Environment
Returning home from the joy and excitement of Los Angeles, I was quickly reminded of the contrasting reality—a toxic office environment that has been a significant source of stress. The vibrant experiences of my birthday stood in stark contrast to the daily challenges I face at work.
The Struggle
In the office, the atmosphere is often filled with negativity, unhealthy competition, and a lack of support. The stress and frustration of navigating this environment have been draining, affecting both my mental and physical well-being. It’s a place where constructive feedback is rare, and backstabbing and blame-shifting are common.
Finding Balance and Strength
Despite the toxicity at work, I’ve found ways to cope and maintain my sanity. The joy and love I experienced in Los Angeles have become my anchor, reminding me of what truly matters.
Self-Care and Boundaries
Prioritizing self-care has been crucial. I ensure I take time for activities that bring me joy, such as reading, walking, and spending quality time with my day ones. Setting boundaries at work has also helped protect my mental health, making sure I don’t let the negativity seep into my personal life.
Support and Positivity
Talking to trusted friends and family about my struggles has provided immense relief and perspective. Their support has been invaluable. Additionally, focusing on the positive aspects of my life and celebrating small victories helps counterbalance the negativity at work.
Exploring New Opportunities
While managing the current situation, I’m actively exploring new career opportunities. Knowing that I have options and that this toxic environment is not permanent gives me hope and strength.
Moving Forward
The contrast between the joy of my birthday celebration in Los Angeles and the challenges of my toxic office environment has been stark. Yet, these experiences have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, self-care, and the importance of cherishing the moments that bring us happiness.
As I move forward, I carry with me the memories of a magical birthday and the lessons learned from adversity. Life is a journey of ups and downs, and it is through these experiences that we grow and find our true strength. Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful and optimistic, knowing that brighter days are ahead.
- Victoria Monet: Hollywood (feat. Earth, Wind & Fire & Hazel Monet) ↩︎
Absolutely Shell 