#WISA Conference

Due to the extreme generosity of a wonderful individual (to remain anonymous unless I am otherwise told to change this section), I will be able to attend the #WISA conference in Columbus, Ohio this June.  I have had this conference on my radar for a while, and had come to the conclusion that I would not be able to attend due to an insufficient lack of funds (the joys of being in between graduate school and my first professional position).  But once again, the kindness, support, and amazing-ness that is the community of #WLsalt and the individuals involved have surprised me again.  I should be used to this by now.  I mean, I've interacted with many of the ladies on Twitter and have experienced their willingness to help in whatever way possible even though we've never met.  I have come to realize that these women help to provide the backbone to support me in my on-going job search as well as support me as an #sagrad turned #sapro (the job (and right fit) will come in time).  I just never thought I would receive such support in such a small, but large, way.  While $65 does not seem like much, to a individual attempting to save as much money as possible, it means the world.  As I sit here typing this entry, I have tears rolling down my face, as I did when I read the message from this individual who is supporting me in attending this conference.  The past two years have been a tough road, with many ups and downs and detours that have reared their heads.  But while the past two years were a struggle and I still haven't completely figured out how I survived, I know deep down it is due to the people who have been around me and supported me.  Whether they were fellow #sagrads, #sapros who have been there before, or just caring individuals who put themselves out there for me to know that they cared and they were going to see me through this journey, they are all wonderful people who I would have never survived the adventures without.  And while I sit here with no idea what the future holds for me, I know it holds the opportunity to build relationships with the women I respect as #sapros, friends, sisters, mothers, and genuinely good people.  So here's to starting (and continuing to build) these relationships on June 17th.  I'll be there with a positive attitude, a smile on my face, and (probably) a few resumes in my purse.  You'll know it's me...I'll be the optimistic one ready to take on the world.  One step at a time.