Some days, when I am writing about Izzy's life, I lose myself in sadness. Yes, I know she is a fictional character. Yes, I know that her struggles are not real. Some of them, however, are things that loads of people deal with. The loss of her parents, her loss of direction, her inability to see what the outcome of her life will be. All of these things plague our everyday lives.
Then I stop and remember (or the fictional Izzy that lives in my head reminds me) that it is all part of our makeup. I, myself, would not be who I am today if it weren't for the struggles life has brought me. Through heartache and disappointments I have found myself and my place in this world. Every single struggle and triumph has led me to be the exact person I am today. Had one thing gone differently it could have changed my whole life.
I am reminded of something a friend used to tell me back in college. I am sure he got it from somewhere, but I am not sure where. "Without the bitter,the sweet would not be as sweet." Now, when I am faced with a difficult situation I try and remember that. I try and remember that moments are all fleeting and I will survive. I strive to live my life not reflecting on the bad, but being in awe of the big picture.
Had one small thing gone differently in my life I might not have the wonderful and supportive husband I have today. I would not have my amazing and energetic daughter. I would not be in a position in my life that I felt confident enough to share my stories with the world.
I know there will still be days ahead where I feel overwhelmed with life. Where I feel as though the walls are crashing in. I hope that in those times I can be like Izzy and look for the positive and be grateful for the hardships.
Excerpt #1 from See How She Runs-
"I don’t want to be defined by the events of my life Kennan. I can’t walk through life a sad sack of memories. I have days ahead of me, and I don’t know how many. I refuse to live those days drug down by the horrible things of my past. I will enjoy the small moments I am given." -Izzy
xoxo,
Michelle
Love this blog post.
ReplyDeleteThanks Dianne. It was just something that has been on my mind the past few days. :)
DeleteThank you! its nice to know that others out there feel the same way sometimes and its a great reminder to me, to look at the big picture and not so much just the bad moment.
ReplyDeleteits also so brave of you to publish your thoughts and feelings and that is what makes you so special.
i can't wait to see more from Izzy, as i know she is part of you.
I think depression is one of those things people tend to shy away from. But as someone that has suffered off and on my whole life, I don't want to hide it. It is a part of who I am, but like Izzy I won't let it define my entire existence. At least I try not to. :) <3 You Ali.
ReplyDelete