15 Comments
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Kim Catanzarite's avatar

Wonderful post! It's nice to get to know you better and watch your journey unfold. You've already accomplished so much, and I know there's so much more for you to look forward to:)

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thanks for these encouraging words, Kim! I’m so glad that we crossed paths on our respective journeys…excited to see how yours continues to unfold too. Hope you have a nice vacation planned after finalizing your series. 😃

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Aisling Walsh's avatar

What a ride! So sorry to hear about the job loss but glad to know you're finding your feet at home again!

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thank you, Aisling! Enjoying this Substack thing so far! Hope life and writing are going well on your end too. Abrazos.

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Quinton Sloan's avatar

Michael,

I’m glad you are back. Life is precious, as is time. I know it means the world to the family that you are within arms reach again! Over the years, your writing has rekindled my love for reading. Each piece you share feels like a gentle hand reaching out, reminding me of the resilience within us all. Your journey of rebuilding, of finding strength amidst uncertainty, deffffffffinitely resonates deeply (especially during the times we are living in). It's in your words that I find solace and inspiration, a testament to the power of vulnerability and authenticity. Thank you for illuminating the path with your stories ❤️😊

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thank you, Q! These are very kind words. (And I’m sure you recognize the fruit bouquet 😜). Thank you for always being a big supporter of my writing, and I’m glad you’re enjoying reading more these days. The way you absorb books is impressive, and I hope you have more time to read fun things post graduation. Big hugs and thank you again!

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Angela's avatar

You have so many beautiful gifts to share with the world, and maybe the circuitous path is what makes that happen! Deep breaths and being intentional with each juncture will lead you to new adventures and opportunities to shine. And maybe those dating apps matter more than work for a bit? :P xox

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Denise Tinquist's avatar

As always, beautifully written! Happy to hear you are ready to share your many skills with the world — our country can sure use people like you today. You and your classmates were such an exceptional class ant RHS, and so many of you are making a difference. Wishing you well on your journey.

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thank you, Denise! Certain things always remain with us from our younger years, and your class is definitely one of them! And yes, we had a great class at RHS...very lucky and always good to reconnect with those peers. I'm partnering up with Kelly Brady on a fun children's book project...will keep you posted on how that goes!

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Haven's avatar

This was so well-written and lovely to read — I’m sorry you’re rebuilding, I too recently faced some of the same themes and starting over while answering questions like “how did I land here” is so tough.

This also made me want to call my mom back!! Let’s grab a drink in NYC - hope the dating apps are fired up and successful!

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Michael Solis's avatar

Hey Haven! Thanks so much for reading...and yes, call your mother!! And let's definitely meet up. I was wondering if you guys would be at reunions this year. :)

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Colette Dickinson's avatar

I enjoyed your post here so much! I love your sense of optimism and finishing this chapter

( of this chapter ? ) on an upbeat.

Such a world of surprises! Your Dad is THE

Tito Santana?!?!!!!!

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thanks so much for reading, Colette! Thanks so much...I've been wired for optimism (though there are definitely times where that has caused issues), but it helps to get through life's challenges. And yes, that is the Tito! Are you a wrestling fan?

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Kari Klassen's avatar

Wow, Michael, what a story! Sounds like you’re on quite the journey. There are several people I know, me included, who are finding themselves back at earlier versions of who they were. Fascinating. Hope it all works out well. ❤️

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Michael Solis's avatar

Thank you for reading, Kari! It's funny how life intervenes and forces you back to your roots sometimes. Challenging but also magical moments. I'm curious to know what you're up to now!

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