The ABC's of Andrew

The ABC’s of Andrew.
A is for Andrew

One Score and 13 Years Ago…I was born May 22nd, 1977, in Salt Lake City Utah. I find it fascinating that of all the places. And in anytime. I chose, (God/Universe chose), for me to be born to Larry and Rosa Benson in 1977 in Salt Lake City, Utah. I believe that EVERYTHING was predestined. Every relationship, every mishap, every good thing, was simply meant to be. Every choice you make continues to take you down the path that was and will always be your life. Deep huh!?!
This is the beginning of my path. My parents named me Andrew Derrick Benson. The Greek meaning of my name Andrew is; Strong, Manly, and Warrior. Okay, so you probably chuckled when you read the word “manly”. Well, maybe I am not Manly by popular definition. However, I am confident that Strong and Warrior, are definitely two words I can live up to. Throughout my life, I have felt like a warrior of sorts. I’ve learned to toughen up and to make a stand for myself when necessary. It was inevitable that I would learn strength and courage because of the incredible examples I had while growing up! My Grandmother Elfi has been the most influential person in my life, thus far. She was a perfect and peaceful warrior. Serene and gentle and strong in her faith. My mother, Rosa, has been my foundation and biggest support. Each others side-kick. I learned from my mother that true relationships aren’t 50/50, they are 100/100. And I am 100% a fan of Mama Rosa. My father, Larry, has taught me many lessons. One of the key most important things I have learned from my father is to never assume. When I was deliberating whether or not to come out to my parents at the age of 19, I assumed that my father was going to be upset and could possibly right me off. When in fact, my father was the first person to commend me on my bravery and swore never to stop loving me, no matter what. I will never forget the moment I unveiled the true “me” to my father, while sitting in a car in the Burger King Parking lot. I guessed you could say that my Dad got a “Whopper” with his coffee! Another important teacher for me has been Jason, my love. Jason has continued to teach me everyday to be stronger, forgiving of faults and patient in relationships. I am so honored to be with someone that reminds me so much of the qualities that my grandmother had. I look up to Jason for his bravery and determination to always see the brighter side of life!

The following 26 posts are inspired by a book that my dear friend Becky recommended to me a few years ago, “Totally Joe”, by James Howe. The story is about a young boy who receives an assignment in school to write an Alpha-biography. The story of his life from A to Z. Every chapter began with the next letter of the Alphabet and each chapter ended with a “Life Lesson”. And for the past 3-4 years, since I’ve read the book I’ve wanted to do the same. So here goes, my life, a map of the path that I have lived. A to Z.
Stay tuned for the next post… “B” is for Becky!

LIFE LESSON: When I am not able to find my own strength I can look to my loved ones. They have consistently pushed me in the right direction when I am not able to find the right path.