Thoughts by Hannah #1

Yes, I'm only 19 years old. But that does not mean that I haven't gone through trials.
We've all gone through trials.
Just because your hardship doesn't seem as big or difficult as someone else's, that does not mean it isn't important.
Our trials do not shape us. It's how we react to them that matters.

This past year, I was in the middle of a very serious relationship. It wasn't until about 7 months in when I finally listened to what my head was trying to tell me. I broke it off and dealt with the immediate consequences. However, I found that when I put all the drama aside & forgot about myself, I was happier.
I would sit & listen to a roommate talk about her impossible classes or boy problems. I would offer to help plan or bring a snack to a party. I would do the dishes for a friend.  By doing these acts, I helped others.
By doing these small & simple things, I became better.

It is important, however, to take time for yourself.
Every now & then I would have a "me" night where I'd take a drive and pray aloud, or watch Netflix while doing my nails. Heck, there were even times when I'd order a whole pizza just for me.
It's so imperative that we learn to appreciate our own company. Things are not always going to work out the way we plan. Trials will come and leave us stranded, but we have these amazing, resilient minds that can tackle anything.

Learn to love others.
Learn to love yourself.

Some people are naturally good at one or both. For me, it took a few years to learn to love myself & I'm admittedly still in the process of learning to love my neighbors. But I'm trying.
If you are putting in an honest effort, that's all that matters.

Rejoice in other's successes.
Acknowledge someone's presence.
Lend a helping hand.

To quote the infamous High School Musical cast, we are all in this together.