Anxiety and depression, albeit common among a multitude of people, are overburdening commodities that still impacts my life. Sleepless nights, hungry days, long hours, irritable palpations of my heart, and tear-stained clothes only serve as reminder that no matter how much I've grown, these harmful habits so ingrained in my being will never leave. It's hard to form good relationships with those you care about dearly due to trauma responses. I tend to push people away in burst of disinterest, then cry over the loss. I gripe about commitment and overstimulate myself on the ideas of how to love properly. Days were spent where I have overindulged in my misery to only further my declining health and kindness. Finding the courage to heal was something that was so simple yet arduous to do. I found this courage when I had realized at one point in my life, although I was hurting, I was hurting others as well. Hurting those who loved and supported me through my worst. The very people who inspired me to live and continue on despite it all. This realization helped me begin my journey toward healing. I started to appreciate the life I was given and sought joy instead of misery. I was inspired to continue pushing forward and helping others heal so that they may flourish. Although I haven't healed completely, looking back, the small steps I've taken have made me realize that I made it so far into a life I was so sure I didn't want. I appreciate those around me and I allowed myself to be vulnerable. That above all else has taught me that love, patience, and understanding can make such a significant impact on someone's life. My goal in life was to impact the world the same way my friends and family have impacted me. I want to show gratitude for those around me and compassion for those who've suffered longer than I have and those who are still suffering. Mindfulness quickly became a virtue of mine. The more I healed, the more I realized that whenever someone hurts me emotionally or physically, they are hurting too. I'm inspired to continue living not only for myself but for those around me as well. To continue helping others heal and understand, to show compassion and love, and most importantly to value the life they were given.