Isabella Gonzalez has never had just one place to call home. Moving often while growing up, she found it hard to answer where she was from, but now she sees that being from “everywhere” is what makes her story special. Through all the changes, she learned to be strong, flexible, and open to new people and places. Books, reading, and self-care helped her stay grounded, and today she’s proud of the unique journey that shaped who she is.
Author: Isabella Gonzalez
Instagram: @irises_4_Isabella
Growing up I never had a "home base". This is a unique experience I've come to appreciate. When I was younger the question: "where are you from?" always felt impossible to answer. Over time I've realized the answer is "I'm from everywhere". And that is what makes my story so special.
Though moving every few years has taken a toll on my mental health, I've learned the importance of finding balance through self-care and mindfulness. Specifically through reading. I love to read and analyze texts. Amidst constant change reading and libraries remained a positive consistency. Everywhere I traveled there was always a library for me to check out books, read and make friends. Mental health deserves the same attention as physical health because it shapes how we navigate life's ups and downs.
Living all over the U.S. and exploring the world has gifted me endless adventures. I've had the privilege of traveling to two continents, seven countries, and twenty U.S. states- all before reaching adulthood. Each move taught me something new. Like how to adapt to different cultures, embrace diversity and finding beauty in the unfamiliar.
It was challenging being "new kid" time after time. But every introduction to a classroom full of familiar faces helped me develop resilience, adaptability and confidence. I've since learned how to build connections, even if only for a short time. And while goodbyes are tough, I've come to treasure the memories and friendship that each place has gifted me.
Today I live in a small town where everyone has seem to grow up together. At first I envied the stability and long-term friendships others had. But now I see the richness of my own journey. I've been given the extraordinary opportunity to see the world, experience different traditions and shape my identity through constant change. These experiences have made me uniquely adaptable, open-minded and eager to connect with others. I carry these qualities with pride.
Isabella’s journey has taught her to embrace change and find strength in new experiences. She now carries her story with pride, knowing it has shaped her into a confident and open-minded person.
