Before I ask you to sit with me, I must be able to sit with myself. Before I ask you to accept my pain, I have to accept the pain myself. Before I ask you to love me, I have to be madly in love with myself. If you know me, you know I’ve changed, for the better – my growth is strong. I am influenced by the world around me. I am influenced by my own thoughts. I am influenced by the choices I make. I choose to absorb the positives, and block out the negatives. I work hard to be a better human being; emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually. I do this for many reasons, most importantly, for this opportunity to be alive. I reflect often because it brings my soul joy, I reflect on my greatest achievements, and my darkest of sins. I am not perfect nor do I strive to be. I recognize faults, guilt and shame, however, I choose not to live there. I believe that life is a continuous journey, to be lived with enjoyment. Our past shapes us but it does not define us. Be at peace. Take control of your life. You are the key to your own destiny. Whatever it is that you believe in, that higher power, place your trust there. And then, breathe. This life is only as difficult as you let it be. If there is something negatively affecting you, let it go, make a change for your soul. Negativity is limitation. Positivity is opportunity. Shine bright, and never forget your worth. You are beautiful.