To the young woman who struggled to get out of bed this morning, wanting nothing more than to curl up in the safety of her blankets. To the gentleman who stood in front of the mirror while getting ready for the day, trying to convince himself that he is able to make it through another day at work that day. To the mother who locked herself in the bathroom, ignoring the continual knocking at the bathroom door for just 5 more minutes of peace.
I see you!
I see you putting on your sunglasses regardless of how bright it may be out simply to hide the tears welling in your eyes.
I see you hesitating with your hand on the office door, trying to pull yourself together before walking into another day at work.
I see your hands at your sides, fists, as you try to convince yourself to keep it together.
Life is not easy. There are days that are you are able to go through the motions with your mask of happiness fully in place, easily convincing everyone around you that you have everything together. Other days you struggle just to make it from sun up to sun down… but you’re still breathing! If just getting through the day is all you could handle, then remember that you’ve accomplished something. Try not to be too hard on yourself, after all, tomorrow is a new day.
Just keep moving forward, putting one foot in front of the other.
Our inner demons in life come in a number of forms. Some of you are battling mental illness, with the voices of anxiety, depression or eating disorders plaguing your mind. Others may be facing a difficult time financially, living day to day just trying to make ends meet. Toxic relationships with friends or family members may challenge your every decision. A challenging or questionable marriage may be making things difficult, draining you of your energy. Whatever your battle – I see you, and I am proud of you.
I am proud of you for fighting through the day.
I am proud of you for pushing forward, even if you felt as though you wanted to give up.
I am proud of you for still being here.