My Journey of Self-Discovery in a New State

As I settle into my new life in California, I find myself torn between my desire for independence and my need for connection. As a Mormon girl from Utah, I've always been taught to value modesty and humility, but being away from my family and friends has made me realize how little I know about myself. I often find myself wondering what it would be like to be more confident, more outspoken, and more carefree.

My boyfriend Paul and I have been talking about our future together, and it's made me think about the kind of person I want to be. I've always thought of myself as a 'good girl,' but what does that even mean? Is it just about following the rules, or is it about being true to myself? I feel like I'm caught between two worlds - the one I was raised in and the one I'm trying to create for myself. It's a scary but exciting feeling, and I'm not sure where it will lead me.

As I navigate this new chapter in my life, I'm learning to be more open and honest with myself and others. It's not always easy, but it's necessary if I want to grow and learn. I'm starting to realize that being a 'good girl' doesn't mean I have to be perfect - it means I have to be true to myself, even when that's hard. And that's a journey I'm excited to be on.