The biggest struggle in my life has been to accept that everything happens for a reason. Although that might sound cliché, it’s very hard for me to trust that no matter what, I have a path and a future that is waiting to be explored. I wouldn’t call myself a religious person, but I do believe that there is a meaning and a purpose in my life that I am meant to fulfill. It’s easy to lose sight of that, however, when relationships or school or work don’t go my way. I tend to forget that pain and suffering is part of growing, and conquering fears and temptations is part of becoming who you are meant to be.

When my grandfather passed away, I couldn’t understand why the universe would take something so precious away and how I was supposed to overcome such a tragic event. It’s inconceivable that one day someone is there, and the next they’re gone. Somehow you move on, though, and somehow you come out a stronger and more caring person than before. I’m slowly learning that life is as much about love, passion, and happiness as it is about adversity, hardship, and sorrow. Balance is a difficult thing to learn, but it has certainly taught me that no matter what there is always something lovely waiting for you around the corner.