Weakness is often our Greatest Strength

Criticism and defeat are possibly two of greatest experiences to launch us into a necessary growth for a successful future. Almost five months ago I experienced what felt like the greatest defeat. I felt like a failure, I was overcome with an anxiety for tomorrow. But tomorrows have come, anxieties have grown and demolished or even grown again; I haven't lost at life yet... It's not over. Loosing one round only launched me into the next chapter.

It's funny how life positions us in just the way that we need to grow, if we are diligent and present in our every moment. Each moment of every day has an opportunity that may be the tools for your success. Over the course of the last year an half, I've met some of the most incredible people and have experienced some of the greatest moments of friendship. The beauty given has been beyond anything I could have imagined. Through trials, failures, success, tears, lost battles and battles won; I'd say that life must only get better. I've realized that change doesn't mean loss or failure. Change often brings upon many emotions, but the evolution of our existence requires growth pains. 

Growth sometimes results in awkward phases where we aren't our "best" selves. We all have went through puberty and we know that those years were pretty damn awkward at stages... Friendships changed, our bodies changed... Everything looked different... I remember finally thinking "the awkward is done... My ears and feet kinda fit my body now..." But as I've grown and traveled through seasons this far I realize life is full of changes and awkward seasons that launch us into moments of appreciation. 

 Receiving critique of our character or personality can be the best medicine for healing if we analyze and accept what was given. In life we really need to step back an analyze...be willing to take advice, learn, listen.... Grow! 

My mom used to call me "hardheaded" growing up and I would just get fiestier with her... I was so stubborn and unwilling in many ways.. But it was often essential for my well being to hold tight to my ideals... But taking that mindset into all of life without regard of others, stunts our growth. It has taken a LONG time and a lot of analysis to find a balance between being headstrong and tenacious. Being strong willed and able to take hold of something is a gift, but if it is done with an unwavering mindset, you leave no room to learn better ways to hold the ropes. I sometimes still come across as very strong willed, because I'm diligent to persevere. I find it hard to quit... Quit people, jobs, task, ect. I do not like to give up or back down... The beauty of this is found when we still leave room to grow and learn from others. I realized that life is about community and learning from those surrounding us. Being willing to listen and compromise are keys to success.

"Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak."

Thomas Carlyle

There is so much gratitude in my heart for those that have fought by my side. During the course of the last year I've seen many sides of myself and some not so pretty... When we struggle and feel defeated, it's easy to attack those that are closest to us.. A test of time with friendship is really shown when we can love one another through the lowest moments. I'm grateful that the universe has gifted me with many talented individuals who have loved me. They've loved me with honesty and wisdom. At times, especially a few months back, I could not breathe in fear of how I'd come through this season... But every time I felt as if I could not keep going I was reminded of how great this process is... 

So much more to be said of what this season has been and so many to thank but for now, persevere.. It's not over!