Chronically Brave

Courage often is tested when we are forced to face the most difficult of situations. For the chronically ill, this is more often than not in the form of a hospital visit. Forcefully moving your feet along as you trickle down the bare white walls awaiting yet another test to describe your progress over the past few weeks is more daunting than a philosophy exam, and yes, those are frightening. Being a full time student and patient is a different experience than most are used to but in my opinion is the most rewarding. Escaping campus for the hospital, and then the hospital for campus allows the mind to never know what to think other than enjoy the bouncing back and forth. It's an odd life but it is the one we live together. We are strong. We are bold. We are brave. 

Keep Moving Forward

"We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths" -Walt Disney

It is in our darkest moments where even the dimmest light is significant. The idea of making progress when we are overcome with frustration, pain, and fear can be paralyzing but these are the moments in which decision is made as to how we will be defined. Just as giving in is a choice, so isn't being relentless in the belief that triumph is inevitable with hard work, determination, and perseverance. It is not that we do not possess the ability to fight back and be victories but that we merely make the decision to do what is easy over what is, in all actuality, right.

Just as we walk along a board walk and soak in the ocean's dew like a sponge, the people we surround ourselves with make a lasting impression, as we soak in their actions, words, and motivations (or the lack there of). Remain mindful of who you select to spend your time with and take a reflective moment to ask yourself if they are supporting or limiting your growth. Regardless of which outcome you choose, remember it was you who made the choice. Don't lose the hunger of achieving what it is that you are capable of in fear of standing out. You were born to stand out and not be average. Go down the new path in which your curious mind leads you and don't look back. Keep striding towards the sunrise and when it's time for it to set, prepare yourself the the gift of light in the coming day.