A Reflection of 2014

(Sept 14th, 2022)

It's so strange to read these posts so many years later and reflect back on this chapter. My life, career, faith, and relationships have drastically changed since 2014 and I feel nostalgic and emotional thinking about this version of Alissa. But I'm also so proud of her. I wish I could tell her how different she would be 8 years later. I would warn her of the trials ahead, but I would reassure her that she would be okay, that she would grow in countless ways, and that she would experience joy in unexpected places.

So the last time I posted I promised I wouldn't wait 2 months to post...well, I guess I didn't keep that promise very well because that last post was written in August...

2014 was a tough year emotionally and relationally.
2014 was an incredible year spiritually.

I made the conscious decision to relocate to the other side of the world for an entire year without the comfort of knowing a single person who was doing the same. I packed up as much as I could possibly fit into two suitcases and flew to Japan not knowing the next time I would see any of my family or friends.
I suffered jet lag from a 16 hour time difference for weeks while simultaneously experiencing overwhelming Japanese culture shock.  I started to establish friendships with the cast I now call my family and started learning choreography for the show I have done over 700 times.

Nick and I spent 37 days out of the whole year together.