Last week, I journeyed along with my family to Gainesville for my brother's orientation at the University of Florida. While it is true I am a current student at the University of Central Florida, I am not disheartened at my brother's decision to go to the "Gator" University. In fact, I am very happy with his decision to go to this school. All other facts aside, during this trip, I could not join my family at the school, so instead, I decided to explore the town.
It wasn't until about 45 minutes of walking around that I finally found my destination: A fabrics store that didn't have what I was looking for. It honestly wasn't a surprise to me. However, as I left the store and headed back to the hotel, a small makeup and wig shop caught my eye. A bright hot pink sale sign was on the window and I thought, why not stop in? I didn't have to be anywhere. I could spare some time. So, I headed inside the makeshift store and prepared for the worst.
The store was nothing but silence as I walked around. There was no bell on the door to signal my entrance. In fact, there was no door at all since it was already opened. A little old lady appeared from the back as I stepped further into this strange store. She greeted me with a smile and said "hello." I smiled back politely and said "hello" back, and that was when the conversation started.
We talked for a while. We talked about life, about how I was out of town, about why I was in Gainesville, about where I went to school, and what I was going to school for. It didn't take long for us to find something to elongate the conversation. And it just so happened to be about writing. She asked me what I liked to write about and I told her I'm interested in fiction and script work. It just so happened that at the end of our conversation, she gave me the contact information for a friend of hers who is a film director. Panicking on the inside, I thanked her. As we headed towards the door, she let me have a free pair of earrings and gave me a bible quote which read:
"Delight yourself, also in the Lord."
It is moments like these that can turn a bad day into a good one. Up until that point, I've been having bad days left and right, and most days lead to anxiety and depression. I do try to be as optimistic as I can, but sometimes, sheer willpower and inspirational quotes are just not enough. It was because of this woman and others like her that I continue to see the light in all things, and so should you.
No matter how hard the days get, or how gloomy life may seem right now, just know that the sun will always shine again. After the rain comes a rainbow and it shines brightest when you need it the most. Have faith and seize the day!
