When we decided to leave Florida, economically, it made sense. Inwardly, we both surveyed our decisions from the year with contrition. As we began to find meaning in our choice to return, tears flowed, mixed with frustration. We packed up our townhome, said goodbye to parents and friends, and eventually loaded our cars onto the auto train—headed North to Virginia. At that moment, clarity had found our hearts.
In retrospect, my wife and I reflected on our time in Florida as a perfect failure. Nikki and I glanced at our son, who had no recollection of the emotional and economical beatdown his parents endured from the move. She and I locked eyes, laughed to ourselves, then exchanged a kiss.
Today, we understand what we suffered and how it made us stronger. The investment in our lives to provide favorable experiences for our son is incalculable—he is a lover of trains, and his first time riding one was a memory we all enjoyed.
From the move down, to our return back North—we’re all on a voyage to prosperity. Now, we’re even more prepared for derailments.
Words + Photo by Jamaal Lemon