A common feeling I think everyone can relate to is self pity. All too often, I overanalyze the problems in my life and choose to let the negative thoughts fill my head instead of focusing on the positive. To some extent, I believe all of us are culpable of self pity. We build our problems up, and in our ignorance fail to recognize the blessings right in front of us. This weekend I participated in TCU Dance Marathon in which I heard testimonies from some of the strongest people I have ever met. TCU Dance Marathon’s goal is to raise money for the children of Cook’s Children’s Hospital. During the twelve hours of dancing, multiple families came and shared their stories and made an impact in my life I wish to share with you all.

While these children were sharing their stories, an immense rush of guilt swept over me. All of the “problems” in my life that once seemed to be so large now seemed miniscule. These families took the diagnosis not as a burden, but just a way to grow stronger as a family and in their faith. These children had their childhood’s ripped away from them and were constantly in and out of the hospital, having endless operations, and enduring sleepless nights yet still they chose joy. Every child deserves a happy and normal life. If these children at such a young age can have such unwavering and steadfast strength why can’t we? Why can’t we have the mindset to put on blinders to the stress and hardships in our life and only focus on the good? To me, these children are much more than patients at Cook’s Children’s. They are heroes, survivors, and inspirations.

Another person who has wrestled with not letting hardships get her down is Olivia Caridi from this past season of the Bachelor. Despite being depicted as a villain in the eyes of America, Olivia was a victim of the media making her out to be something she wasn’t. Regardless of your feelings on Olivia, we can all agree that having all your flaws magnified on live television and social media would be any girl’s worst nightmare. While Olivia spoke, she shared about after the show becoming depressed and letting the messages the media was publishing consume her life. After hearing the stories of the children from Cook’s Children’s Hospital, she was inspired to remove her “poor me” mentality and start looking at the bigger picture. In life we can all relate to the “poor me" feeling. We all need to adjust our focus to not letting people’s opinions effect our happiness, and always choosing joy.

Although I didn’t personally know Taylor Helland, her story truly touched my heart. Taylor battled with colon cancer on and off for several years. Despite battling cancer, Taylor chose to make the most of her college years by being a KLIFE leader and member of Chi Omega. She had all the reason to be sad, yet still she chose joy. Taylor’s battle with cancer ended on February 20^th. Taylor has inspired me that regardless of what God throws my direction, to make the most of it and live life to the fullest. Taylor never once was remorseful for her battle, instead, she trusted in God. This type of faith is something we should all strive to emulate. To fully devote our trust in God regardless of what He throws in our direction. Taylor wrote a blog in which she used the phrase “faith through the fear.” This quote is something I wish to explore. In life, we're going to have trials. Instead of being objectified by our fear, we need to surrender it to God and trust his plan like Taylor did. May Taylor rest in peace, and may her story continue to touch the lives of us all.

After spending a day honoring the valiant children of Cook’s Children’s Hospital I made it my goal to always chose joy. The important thing to remember is that joy is a choice. It is a conscious effort on our part to not be victimized by the negative, and instead make the most of all God has given us. Life can change in a blink of an eye. Every moment is precious. Always choose joy.