Treading Water

I have struggled a good chunk of my life with high functioning depression. I meditate regularly, and today while I was meditating, I pondered what depression feels like to me. 

I got an image of me in a raging river, barely able to keep my head above water. I keep treading water, but my arms are so tired and my body is so heavy. But, still, I keep treading.

I asked myself, why do I keep treading? Why don’t I give up and let myself sink? What came to me was I keep fighting for the kids who are being bullied. Because I know I am here to create a better world for them. That my presence in this world is important. The work I do educating and advocating for Moebius syndrome is making a difference. My heart aches for any child who is being bullied. My heart aches for my child self who was bullied. Knowing I can help makes me feel strong enough to keep treading. To keep fighting. 

I also want to fight for others who are treading water. I want to inspire them to not let themselves sink. That their life has meaning and that there’s always a way. Through my struggle, I am here to offer hope and encouragement. Keep treading. Keep fighting. You are stronger than you think. I love you.