I just want to start off by saying how much of a privilege it is that my first time going to New York will be with a big group of inspiring and creative individuals. On top of that, we’ll be greeted by some generous people.

In around 24 hours I’ll be leaving Eugene and my West Coast bubble. I’m ready to go soak up some knowledge, hear stories, and enjoy the city. I’m also ready to push myself outside my comfort zone, even though it can be scary. Luckily, I’ve been getting better every day at getting outside my comfort zone. I even took a class for it called Confidence. In that same class we were given a quote, and I’ll be thinking of it a lot throughout the trip because I know it will pertain to me, and probably to others as well. It’s from Marianne Williamson, and if you’ve seen Coach Carter, you’ll know it.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us… And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, Our presence automatically liberates others.”

I’m ready for you NY.

- Luis Sevilla | 05/04/18