When All Else Fails

I thought I was on the road to better. That’s what they all say though. It’s a funny thing to find that the road to better is actually lined with jagged rocks and thorned rose bushes. When you find that accidentally straying leads in cutting your foot and hindering your journey, it can make the road to better feel like a prison. Even stopping to appreciate the roses, stopping to smell them, can leave you sliced by a hidden thorn.

So, what do you do? When the path to better hurts to and from? When the fork in the road leads to the same destination?

When all else fails, you Keep On Going.

Some days, that’s easier than others.

This last year and a half has been a tornado of emotions, worries, and ups and downs. Many beautiful moments mixed along in there. After a perfect wedding, and a summer of joy that followed, my health declined and then my very long battle with my mental health became a main focus. As was the case for so many in this predicament of a pandemic, panoramic, whatever you want to call it.

I had some tough days. An amazing support system and plenty of reminders of the good around me. Some days, It was all I could do to Keep On Going. But I did. I asked for help when I needed it. Have had some amazing, and not so amazing counseling. I want to share the things I’ve learned in hopes it helps others that may not have that luxury.

I see the light at the end of the tunnel. And I’m here to help you get through it too. Together we can lift each other up. One day at a time. There will always be thorns in the rose bushes. Or jagged rocks lining the path. But you can learn to step over them. You can learn to admire the beauty without the pain of the thorns.

It seems hard. Hell. It is hard. Taking the time to learn how to take care of yourself is one of best things you can do.

My advice today if your having a hard time: Keep On Going

Even if that means buying your inner child the ridiculous stuffed animal that YOU want. Even if you splurge a little to get your hair done. Whatever that small thing is that will make it easier to Keep On Going (as long as it doesn’t hurt you or someone else) - Do it. I promise it’s worth it.

Remember what my Mama taught me: Treat yourself like your own best friend.