Music is a universal language that can transcend differences of class, race, and sometimes even hate. Music can unite and inspire. Music can bring us hope and give us a reason to keep going. Ever since I can remember I have loved music. From listening to the songs my mama used to sing to me as a young child to learning to play ukulele, music has been ingrained in every fiber of my being. There are a variety of songs that have helped me during tough times, but if I had to choose only one song that has been my lifeline I would say "Rise Up" by Andra Day. In her song, she talks about perseverance and finding the courage within yourself to overcome moments in life that seem impossible to forget. In life, there are times when we want to give up or give in and I can say I have had several of those moments in my own life. For the past six years, I have lacked a place to call my own. Throughout my life, I have faced many challenges from AP classes and bullying to food insecurity and losing our vehicle, which was the roof over our heads. Whenever I become discouraged because of my experiences, I listen to Andra Day’s words. And whenever I feel like “the silence isn’t quiet” or “like it’s getting hard to breathe” I am encouraged to “Rise like the waves and rise up, in spite of the ache”. I am reminded to never give up no matter how difficult life is. Although every day presents a new challenge, I refuse to lose optimism because I know I’ll rise a thousand times again.