I have been doing a lot of reflecting recently. Last summer I started writing this blog. It was a big step for me at the time. I started putting myself out there. And as I grew more comfortable, I was able to share my blog with more people. In the beginning I said that if I could help just one person, then this journey would be a success. The blog has seen more growth than I expected. It has helped more people than I expected, myself included.

From 2015-2017 I was admitted into the psychiatric hospital eight times. Things got quieter after that. My medications helped to stabilize my moods. I learned more ways to cope with my illness. I was surviving. But I found out that surviving is not always very fulfilling. I have been doing a lot of existing, without very much living. I needed something to work towards. A purpose. A dream. Writing this blog has given me a sense of purpose, and I am daring to dream again.

Being able to share my writing with all of you is a blessing. The most gratifying thing is reading responses from you. Especially when you share your stories. Sometimes it is a reader response that lifts me up and gives me strength. You let me know that I am not alone, as I try and tell you the same. Thank you, readers.

I struggle. I sigh. I hurt.

I will keep writing about it.

I smile. I laugh. I fly.

I will keep writing about it.