New year, same old attitude

Reflection... of course.

2010 was a year of change and growth. I moved from my apartment into John's house. I proved that I could juggle work and school. John and I welcomed the most snuggly puppy in the world into our home. I was accepted into both Holy Family University's and Arcadia University's masters/ teacher certification programs and will be starting classes in January at HFU. I grew closer to my friends and family. I took control of a bad situation and took steps to resolve it. I finally stood up for myself rather than just dealing. And on top of it all, I got EZ pass. I know, an accomplishment. Welcome to the future.

But, in true life fashion, 2010 wanted to remind me that it could still mess with me until the last seconds ticked away. Last night a Philadelphia police officer was shot in West Philadelphia. I have never had a worse feeling than being on the couch with John, watching a movie, and a news break coming on saying "Officer shot." Because there is no lag time from me seeing/hearing those words and tears pouring down my face. And I cried because I can't imagine the panic that this officer's family was feeling. I cried because I feel my own sense of panic because I love a police officer (who works in West Philly). I cried because of John's history with NYE. And I cried because of how silly it was to be crying when my police officer was on the couch with me telling me not to cry.

Luckily, between text messages and the news, we learned that Officer Adam O'Donnell was protected by his bulletproof vest. That he was taken to the hospital and released shortly thereafter. That in the returning fire, the man that shot the officer was killed. And my heart broke for everyone. My heart broke with happiness that Officer O'Donnell was able to go home to his wife and three kids, and my heart broke with the knowledge that someone's family was going to be brought the news of death on New Years.

So remember at the start of this new year (and all during the year as well) to hold those you love close.