Since downloading Pokemon Go a week or so ago I realized that only the truly strong and determined can progress. The amount of dedication it takes to go out and find Pokemon, power-ups,and hatch eggs is out of this world. When you add the amount of research you go through just to find the best and simplest ways to take full advantage of a lure or how to cheat the system when it comes to hatching eggs it can feel overwhelming.

During the first few days of downloading Pokemon Go I was filled with such hope. I just knew I could be the very best! I walked for hours each day no matter the situation. My phone died (which hasn’t happened for over a year). I had to use Google like nobody’s business. I even went so far as to go online to look for fellow Pokemon hunters because walking around at night isn’t the safest thing to do.

Even through all of the Danny Downers on Facebook saying bad things about Pokemon Go and the people who play the game. Even though 99.9 percent of the time I was alone walking around. Even though almost all my eggs have hatched naturally. Even though I was on #TeamInstinct (the smallest team). And even through the eight hour shifts as a cashier then walking at night. (BTW why can’t cashiers sit down?) And even though my feet felt like death, and I was constantly confused—I loved the game.

The walking makes me feel better. I feel proud and happier that I am getting regular exercise. I feel more sociable now that I can walk up to someone and ask if they have a certain Pokemon and where they found it. I feel more accomplished because I can see the progress I make each and every day by leveling up and getting medals. I feel like an underdog bound to win because #TeamInstinct is still kicking. I feel more peaceful because I know there’s a game that can make me feel really positive about myself and what I’m doing.