The day I decided to come to the US on an exchange, I was willing
to experience a new life. I am an overly apprehensive person. I am
used to being in control. For the first time in my life, I was thrown
into a new unknown world, alone. There were many days of emotions and
goodbyes, but I was sure that every decision I was making was only leading
me to grow and thus, the path I had chosen was right. I told myself I would
not let fear stop me.

Along the way, a lot happened. In the end, I managed to arrive in this coun-
try ready to fight for what awaited me, two months to the date the trip began. I told myself I'm only going to need two things: be happy and trust myself. I need to trust that I can love myself without pain, turning sad days into perfect plans and doubts into answers. It will always depend on me to make a difference. In the years that I have been living in the US, I study and work.
At an early age, I had to become independent. I work to support my family
who is in Guatemala. I am here alone and wish I could be with them. To be
without them is a sacrifice, but I know that better things will come. I won't
lose hope of seeing my family again. Once God gives me the opportunity to,
I will take it. Yes, I suffer from depression and anxiety, yes I used to go to bed
crying until I fell asleep. But, I am here for a purpose.

Four months ago I made the decision to go to the gym. Without knowing it,
more than a discipline, the gym became therapy and an escape from all my
problems. I had motivation, a place where nothing and no one judged me,
and a space of peace. I was going to the gym because I wanted to change
my body, and I ended up changing my body, my mentality, my habits, my
discipline, my perseverance, my security, my confidence and above all, I
ended up having a completely new and different life outside of everything I
could have ever imagined and it is what I am most proud of. Don't leave it to
fate. I do want love and happiness. I know that my freedom didn't come by
chance, it's the work behind the dream that makes it come true. I'm leaving behind excuses and blaming. I know I have responsibilities and I am fighting day by day by studying and working daily for a specific goal. I know that time and effort is the combination that opens any door.

Above all, I have learned that something better always comes. It can be
emotional stability, self-love, maturity, new moments, new projects, and
peace of mind. Every stone on the road has its reason for being there even
though they seem out of place. I have learned not to rush what I want to
last forever. Everything in my life has its own rhythm, its own space and the
right moment for it to arrive. The bravest thing I can do is be patient and
work on me, my growth, and let it all flow. I always tell myself to be strong,
no matter what. Nothing is permanent, everything is temporary. Everything
will pass and at some point everything in my life will change and improve.
I don't have to be depressed. I make my days what I want them to be. I will
overcome my fears and if I have to cry, I will. The most important thing is
that I never have to give up, because in this life I will not have to experience
anything that I cannot bear.

© Dangli . All rights reserved. If you are interested in quoting this story, contact the national team and we can put you in touch with the author’s teacher.