The times you fall and feel panicked by the encompassing weight of never being able to get up.

The paralyzing thoughts of “no” that create a tangible wall in front of you.

The putrid stinging realization that maybe you’re just not as good as you thought you were.

The bloodless color that fills your face when you’ve made an irreparable mistake.

The notion that you’ve failed. For good this time.

The fear that devours the hope alive.

The gaping unbandaged wound that oozes disappointment.

–

Then, the awakening.

The moment where you have a choice:

Seize the Change

or

Embrace the Slump

The pain of digging deeper into a dark corner of enthusiasm to find the glimmer of ambition that you kept on reserve.

The exercise of finding a shred of willpower to strengthen the mind, to overcome the pounding defeat.

The endless repetition of tired quotes and proverbs, the only constant things worth clinging to.

The only things that won’t dig their jaws into you as you get close to them.

–

Finally, the smile.

The smile that quells the deafening can’ts and won’ts.

The smile that delicately lifts the pressing weight on the heart.

The smile that whispers with showering relief:

If you’re not going to help me, get out of my life.

The slump that drifts from the spine and down the shadows, unveiling a taller, sturdier, more composed being. One who is a hair more resilient, a tinge less afraid.

A persistent human woven with webs of resolution.

A warrior.