I have always been a "happy and energetic person." This is what my friends and family and even strangers have told me. What they didn't know was how I was feeling inside. An important life lesson I've not only learned but am continuing to learn every day is that I can overcome anything as long as I have the right attitude. This may sound simple and cliche, but it has been a challenge for me ever since I was 15 and found out I have clinical depression. As I've grown up I've realized that depression is quite common, but this doesn't always help me not feel lonely and confused. I have learned that when I wake up and feel like I want to stay in bed all day, I need to change my mindset. I have to tell myself that there are people out there that have it worse, there are people out there that I can help. Now to be honest, this doesn't always work. Sometimes I let the depression run my life. But I have seen and felt that in the times I take control of my life and change my attitude (even if I have to fake it until I make it), I can accomplish great things. I have been able to use my "weakness" of depression and share with others about my experiences. I do this because I know that I feel better when others share their experiences and struggles with me. I know that together, we can make a difference. As mentioned at the beginning, I am continuing to learn every day. I learn new strategies, new things about myself, and my level of strength. Sometimes I feel like Wonder Woman, other days I feel like a shriveled up piece of old rotten lettuce. But I always try to remember how I have felt and can feel. I can feel and be truly happy. I have overcome before and I can do it again. So everyday, overcome something. Whether it is something that was easy yesterday but difficult today or it's helping someone else overcome, you can make a difference. People need each other to become stronger. Life is hard but it is also so wonderful! You can get through anything. For those having a bad day today, tomorrow will be better if you let it. You may not want to right now, but as you change your attitude, you will find joy.

To be honest, I often take things for granted when I really should be grateful. Recently, my husband and I were both sick. I woke up and was sitting in bed reading when he started snoring horribly. He normally didn’t snore but because of his congestion, it was awful and loud. At first I was getting a bit annoyed. Then I realized how lucky I was to have a husband. To have a husband that loved me and though he seemed annoying right now, he was more like a sweet innocent child. As I looked at him like that, I realized how grateful I was that I could be there with him regardless of his snoring. This story reminds me that when I slow down, I begin to see how much I really have and my gratitude level goes through the roof. I realize many people don’t have running water to drink whenever they want. I realize many people don’t have the option to get an education of any kind. I realize that many people don’t own a watch or even a pencil. All of this makes me sit back and think about how grateful I am for everything I have, big and small. I have a gratitude journal that I would write in nightly. Looking back, it’s fun to see some of the things I was grateful for that normally people wouldn’t even give a second thought. I am so grateful I have lungs that work, a roof over my head, comfortable clothes to wear, and food to eat every day. Most of all, I am so grateful for my wonderful family. I am so blessed to have parents, siblings, and a husband that support me and love me through everything.