How do you make yourself feel welcome in hellish places? Is that an oxymoron or a contradiction fit for a chapter of A Tale of Two Cities? I’d like to think that I am a pretty adaptive human and can be comfortable in most settings, but have recently realized the difference between when you feel welcomed and when you do not.  Turns out sometimes, its not about trying to fix a certain problem to be what it “aight-to-be”, but accepting that there is value in the struggle with adversity. So what does this even mean? Well, it means that no matter how much sugar you put in to a situation, it might still taste bitter or even sour. Realize that, and see how your own attitudes and perceptions shift. Freeing yourself from an expectation is well, quite freeing. I am trying to have more faith in myself and my abilities, and I know I have a long way to go but I am learning to take things as they are.

During a run from last week, I was able to snap a couple pictures. If you ever feel like there is no where to go, go for a run. You might even find answers to problems you have yet to encounter. Run away from fears, run to new hopes and dreams, hell–run just for the sake of being able. This particular run gave me a lot more than I expected. I was able to further reflect on an awkward conversation with a person who made me feel very small and unworthy. Turns out, some people are not your biggest supporters, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t able to help you become better; softer, more understanding, thoughtful, and even more aware of the impact you have on others.

Just a small, but genuine reminder. To be kind to yourself and trust in your instinct. Embrace the intuition deep within yourself and  lean into the unknown. Redemption is plausible. Fight for it, fight for yourself, and fight for the future. This is also a “Thank you” to the people who have doubted me, you all made me realize how important it is to have faith in myself. Lessons around every corner… so many things to learn. I am grateful for it all, and then a little bit more.