Standing on the other side panting, swearing, staring at the chasm you've spent years overcoming can be exhilarating. Whether the obstacle is mental or physical, take a moment to marvel at the full length of your journey. Be grateful for the gnashing of teeth, the fears of failure, the constant anxieties and abuses of how "you're just not enough," the impossible goals, the midnight sweats, the gaining of weight, of losing your grip on reality. When you finally succeed at the task that seemed impossible or insurmountable, allow yourself to exhale fully, close your eyes, permit yourself this moment to heal. But, never forget the aches and cruel tempests that blew through your timid soul night after night. Never forget the motivating speeches you whispered to smear over the pain and strangle its fitful breath. Remember you are the entire experience-- the daily rituals that sustained you, the summation of all your tears. You are the lesson learned, the unsinkable heart, the unwavering believer, a humble warrior standing solitary within the ring of Fire.
I wrote this the day I graduated with my doctorate two years ago today. Thought I would die. In retrospect, this year (2020) has been far more difficult and eye opening.