Tulum, Mexico
April 4, 2023
9:47 AM

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"Is this- is it... is it on?" Azuri inquired, adjusting the camcorder. "Oh, it is" She finished with a small giggle.

Azulik Resort, nestled in the serene beauty of Tulum, Mexico, presents an enchanting escape from the ordinary. As Azuri sits crisscrossed on the soft, powdery sand, she is enveloped by a sense of tranquility. The sand, like fine silk beneath her, invites her to sink into its warmth, while the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea gently caress the shore, creating a mesmerizing melody of waves.

In this idyllic setting, Azuri finds solace in her solitude, her gaze wandering across the horizon with a contented smile and a deep sigh. The air carries a hint of salt and the fragrance of tropical blooms, heightening the sensory experience and lulling her into a state of peaceful introspection.

With the camera as her confidant, Azuri begins to speak, her voice soft and gentle, like an angel's kiss. "Here, in this tranquil paradise, I've embarked on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of home, I've traveled to this distant land to reconnect with myself, to rediscover my purpose, and to embrace the possibilities of new beginnings."

As she speaks, Azuri's eyes sparkle with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the journey ahead.

Azuri's voice carries a mix of vulnerability and sadness as she continues to share her story. "For a while now, I've felt like I've been living a life that isn't truly mine. My childhood wasn't easy, and I've often found myself feeling alone in the world. As a pole dancer, I've been able to support myself financially, but it's not where I see my future. Right now, I'm at a crossroads, unsure of who I am or where I want to go next. But one thing I'm certain of is my willingness to try. As I document my journey, I hope to become a beacon of hope for myself, a reminder that despite the hardships I've faced, there's still so much more to life than the story I was forced to live."

Azuri continues, readjusting herself as her white cover up dances with the wind. "Today's quote is from 2 Chronicles 15:7: "But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."

"I find solace in these words, knowing that God has a plan for me. Even in moments of doubt and questioning, I hold onto my faith, trusting that God hasn't forgotten me."

Azuri sighed, rubbing her elbows with a small smile, " I think it's important to acknowledge the struggles and the times when faith wavers. It's not easy, and there are moments when I feel distant from God because of it. Yet, I refuse to lose hope. All I can do is cling to my faith and believe that something beautiful will emerge from my pain. In every circumstance, I choose to be grateful, for I know that amidst the trials, there lies the promise of something greater.

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Returning to her room, Azuri found herself already packed and ready for her early morning flight. Making her way to the bathroom, she stepped onto the smooth birch wood floors of the bohemian-styled space.

She filled the large, modern bathtub, positioned beneath floor-to-ceiling windows, with hot water and added a generous amount of effervescent salts and delicate pink petals from the flowers she had gathered in the garden the day before. Shedding her bathing suit, she secured her quick weave with a white flower claw clip and slipped into the warm embrace of the bath, enveloped by the soothing melodies of her favorite music.

Her tranquility was suddenly interrupted by the ringing of her phone. It was her boss, Isaac. "Hey, Zuri, got some business to discuss. I need to relocate you to my club in Chicago once you return. It's short notice, but I'll cover all your expenses. I've already arranged an apartment for you to stay in temporarily. I'll fill you in on the details when you arrive," he informed her before quickly concluding the call.

"Um, okay, I guess. Bye," Azuri replied, her mind already swirling with thoughts of the unexpected change awaiting her.