Cultural by Ashley Garcia

ashleyq634 — 2024-11-08 10:33:33 UTC

I grew up Catholic and would disconnect and connect back. Even if I am not heavy on organized religion, the presence and thought of a God has always held a special place in my heart and made me who I am.

ashleyq634 — 2024-11-08 10:36:27 UTC

Music has been a HUGE part of my life. It carries me day to day and not a day goes by where I don't listen to at least one song. The music my parents and siblings listened to shaped the music I loved at the beginning of my life. As I began to grow up I started to discover music that I enjoy and that I feel nurtures my soul. J. Cole is my favorite artist and the things he discusses in his song has played a big role in the way I view the world.

ashleyq634 — 2024-11-08 10:52:35 UTC

My beautiful family has played a huge role into the person I am. They have watched me grow up and created a lot of the values I have. Protecting the people I love is a big part of who I am. Understanding that I have such an amazing support system that's stuck with me is something I've learned through the years.

ashleyq634 — 2024-11-08 10:58:38 UTC

Life blessed me with the most amazing best friend who has a wonderful family. Her and her family have molded me in my adolescent years. They taught me that friends can be family too. They taught me so much love, loyalty, and unwavering support can come from people other than immediate family. They made me feel like a part of their family and gave me so much love. They are an immense part of the person I am and have become.

ashleyq634 — 2024-11-08 11:01:54 UTC

Nature has become a safe space that I didn't know I needed. Going on hikes, watching sunsets, or having a picnic in the mountains became some of my favorite things to do. I realized that by being out in nature I felt a sense of peace and gratitude that I don't feel when I'm in my usual busy routine.