I like to think of myself as an open, bright, independent, free-thinking individual ... someone who thinks out-of-the-box but can also easily remain within the box whenever the situation calls for it. I try to follow my own path, but still have a strong grasp on society's definitions of success. I am very passionate about my career and am currently a Special Education Teacher at a middle school just outside of Philly. My family is extremely important to me. For several years, I helped take care of my dad, who passed away from ALS (Lou Gherig's Disease). Though this loss was undoubtedly sad, the time I was able to spend with my father and what I learned from this experience about life, love, strength, compassion, hope, dignity, and the value of family -- was beyond measure. I don't think I could have traded this time for any occupation or education. In another person ... I'm interested in meeting someone who is open, honest, ambitious, caring, confident, articulate, intelligent, and respectful. I'm looking for someone who has some different ideas for where to go and what to do - someone who wants to expose me to new things and vice versa. Above all, I think it's important to be with a person who challenges you and can bring out the best in you every day.
