The Beginning

We are going into the third week of a brand new year. 2010 will mark a new beginning for many of us. For me, the new year marks a fresh start to redirect my life. The last few years have been difficult but I triumphed over the many obstacles. That was in the past and I still have a long and bright future ahead of me. Sure, we all have problems we face on a day-to-day basis, but it is up to us whether we focus on the negative or the positive. I choose to see my life as having a glass half full rather than half empty. When I speak of struggles, I am speaking of the death of my family. My family meant the world to me and I watched as one-by-one they passed away leaving me alone. One of the most struggling conclusions I came to is: life is fragile. We have to live each day as it is a purpose for we never know what tomorrow may bring.

When I look back at my life, I have no regrets, but I have a very heavy place in my chest where I wish I could say I love you once again to my family or give them a hug. I would give anything to go back to that perfect place where I can be a kid without a care in the world. My life is very different now. I moved away from everything I knew and everyone. I moved out of state where the memories of the past could no longer haunt me, but I have learned (in the last year) I can no longer run away from my fears for they will never truly disappear. My past will always be lingering behind me until I face those fears, my past will always have control. 2010 will be a much different year for me because I plan to conquer my fears.

I am not alone in my adventure. My friends are by my side an I have many. They are my rock, my soul, and my confidants. Without them, I would not be here today writing in this blog. They challenged me to keep fighting. I am, but I am no longer fighting for just me. I am fighting for those who can not stand and fight for themselves. I fight for those who want to be free from discrimination and loved by others in society. We are all different and through my life's obstacles, I have gained the strength to stand tall and obtain a voice to speak out for all who may be less confident and need help. The love of my family still burns deep within the depth of my soul igniting me forward to achieve my goals. I look forward to reaching out, networking, gaining experience, and growing as a person. I look forward to hearing from anyone who want to make a difference in their life or the lives of others.

For I am me, my soul, and I: a survivor.

-Doug-
www.sewingdiversitytogether.com