Everyone has a past. We all go through tough experiences. People around us are fighting all sorts of battles that we may know nothing about. It is true our life experiences shape us into who we are but they do NOT have to define us. We all have the power to rise up and overcome. It is so easy to blame our poor choices and actions on our past experiences. I was one of those people. I did not hold myself accountable for my actions because "I had a hard life growing up." I did many things that I am not proud of because I needed "an escape". I buried my problems by acting out and not respecting myself. And I just kept burying them. Year after year until one day my life imploded. I was so close to losing everything I loved and worked for. And ultimately, I did lose something very dear to me. It was at that moment that I knew I was not okay. I needed help. I had to swallow my pride and seek professional help. And that has been one of the BEST decisions I've ever made. Looking in the mirror and admitting I could not handle this on my own. I put my foot down and decided I will NOT let my negative life experiences creep into my present life. I will not let it destroy the good. I have the power to change. Do I still struggle? Oh, you bet. But speaking to a counselor and working on myself gives me a sense of fulfillment I didn't have before. Your mental health comes first. If you aren't in a good place mentally, everything will be a struggle. Do it for yourself. Do it for your loved ones. If you're struggling, reach out and ask for help! I promise you'll be glad you did.