 I am an ever-learning, aiming to master self and never getting quite there, while balancing a joyful here-life with the promise of the after-life.  I am a 36 year old woman born and raised in New York City.  I was always a balance between nerd, NY tough, and a super compassionate and people pleasing middle child.  I lost my father at five and this has shaped my life tremendously because it made me independent and self-reliant and responsible.  I also watched my immigrant mother who with limited language acquisition become a resilient wonder woman.  I had high aspirations as a child.  I did very well in school, worked a job and I was popular with teachers, community, and classmates alike.  While I am sociable and I can strike a conversation with just about anyone since I listen well, I am also a closet introvert.  I love solitude.  I am currently an educator after a stint marketing on Wall Street, United Nations, and law school.  I am a teacher coach and educator to Black and Brown middle school students (deliberately serving in predominately marginalized communities) and a founder of an education empowerment program for refugee youth in the refugee camps of Lebanon in the summer.  I am a fashionista at heart.  I love books and started a Book Club.  I even authored a children's book that is due to publish.  I am also a life coach in training and have had 7 clients to date.  Lastly, I care for my mother by choice.  I feel grateful and privileged to be able to do so.  It has always been an aspiration.  I have so much living and traveling to do.