My training wrapped early today, and the universe decided to sprinkle a little magic on my evening. My date showed up with purple roses—my favorite color—and a box full of delicate cakes from a Korean bakery. The kind of thoughtful combo that feels like a hug after a long week.
A One-Day-Only Movie Date
I had planned to go solo to the theater for Jhope’s one-day-only viewing of Hope on the Stage in Japan, but I was glad to have company who wanted to join me. Sitting there, I had so much fun cheering for Hobi on stage, soaking up the energy, the artistry, the joy of it all. There’s something about watching someone fully alive in their craft that makes you root for yourself a little louder, too. 🎬
Side note: MY FAVORITE BOOK is being turned into a new movie!!!
Burgers, Banter, and Music Trivia
Afterward, we headed to Five Guys, where the fries were hot and the conversation flowed. We traded music trivia, laughed, and just let the evening be easy. It felt simple and sweet—no performance, just presence.
A Keepsake I Didn’t Expect
When I got home, he surprised me with a full-size print of his favorite poem of mine and asked me to sign it. I paused—honored, seen, a little stunned. No one has ever done that for me before. It was thoughtful in a way that felt deeply personal, like he valued not just my company, but my voice. That meant everything.
Centered, Boundaried, and Honest
Centering myself has meant giving back the energy I’m given and listening to the vibes from those I naturally connect with. Tonight felt natural, calm. And unfamiliar to my nervous system. Which I enjoy. It also means keeping boundaries with those who watch my life from afar out of curiosity, offering no words of repair. Turn off.
My words from the past still ring true: if I cross paths with anyone from before, I won’t seek them out or linger. I can be kind and still honor what happened. I won’t sweep anything under the rug in the absence of accountability. That’s not bitterness; that’s clarity. I have sent an IG reel in response to being watched as a form of recognition, because ghosting or ignoring someone flat out is a cruelty I received that I will NEVER do to others but as we all know, IG reels and stories views don’t mean shit. It’s as simple as saying “hey, how’s it going?” with no real emotion or vulnerability. It’s nothing to look into. Indirect contact is simply that. And my boundaries state that I have no words for anyone who shows me anything that looks like a dynamic I’ve been in previous. I’m still kind, But the old Shannon that would have done anything just to be liked is dead. I do not chase, I attract. I do not half love, I whole love intensely when I do, loyalty. I give that to myself first.
Healing Without the People-Pleasing
I’ve been focused on healing—not perfection. Living. Enjoying life as myself for once and not what others expect a “GOOD Girl” should be. I’m learning to find humor in my mistakes, to be warm and open about what’s on my mind, and to accept that I’m not always sunshine. but that my moods ebb and flow. I’m done with people-pleasing. And for once, it’s nice to receive care. What a beautiful pre-birthday gift. 🍰
What’s Next In My life
We haven’t set up another date yet—my focus is on getting grounded in my new jobs first since I’m juggling two new starts. Today was a welcomed rest before a busy day ahead. I’m especially thankful for the time to center myself before preparing for my HIIT coaching audition training. Lead trainer at a location. That’s exciting—and I’m ready to show up for it. 😌
The future’s so bright, I gotta wear shades. 😎 I do not know what the future holds and all I do know is from my past experiences, things will only grow out of friendship, truth, taking things slow, and discernment. But again, I’m not in a rush.
When I’m ready, I will know and I’m working on it. 🥹🙌🏻🥰 but having self love, inner peace and space to do that sure does help.
Swipe Left On Perfection 
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