So for those of you who may not know, not only am I an aspiring author, but I am also a college student. I am studying to become a high school English teacher. But balancing my dreams of landing on The New York Times Bestseller List as well as the more immediate goals of passing my classes often collide. As a result, I often leave projects untouched for weeks at a time, and sometimes I even end up leaving projects unfinished. Not only that, but I was also recently diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, and the stresses of medical issues, college life, and my dreams all weigh on my shoulders. At times, I feel like the best thing for me to do is just give up.
But then I remember reading The Cat in the Hat when I was a child. In the book, there is a picture of the Cat balancing on a beach ball, while at the same time holding a menagerie of items, from cakes to umbrellas to books. Hell, he even balances the children's pet goldfish on top of the umbrella! And I realize that life is a balancing act. We often find ourselves feeling like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. While our lives aren't perfect, they are precious. And we can't give up on something that means so much to us just because of outside stresses.
That is ultimately what keeps me going. So, I may be struggling with medical issues. So, I have a busy college life. But that doesn't mean that I will give up on my dreams. I know this post probably sounds cheesy as hell, but it's something that I've been needing to tell myself for a long time. I can't let anything push me down. I will keep going.
And mark my words. One day, you will see me on The New York Times Bestseller List. I'll make sure of it.
Love and Coffee cups,
Rebekah
Rebekah, as your cousin and someone who has traveled this road before, I commend you on your bravery and willingness to share your struggles and triumphs. I also commend your parents for helping you and not shaming you in your path to recovery and dreams of authorship!
ReplyDeleteHiya Rebekah! Amy referred me to your blog and I just wanted to say you are indeed courageous for following your dreams despite the stresses of life. I've always, ALWAYS believed that anything worth doing requires you to work long and hard for it. Some days it's not easy doing that balancing act. Believe me, I know (mom of three kids over here), but every little accomplishment brings you that much closer to your goals. So keep going, because you never know if you can do something unless you try. ~Mysti
ReplyDeleteKeep your head up Rebekah, just like you said it's all a juggling act and I will tell you this I feel the same way sometimes. I juggle owning a business, running it, two kids, a house, college, and writing my first novel as well. So if you ever need someone to talk too, Amy knows how to get a hold of me. Thanks for sharing this post, b/c I needed to hear that someone else feels the same way. :)
ReplyDeleteI didn't publish my first novel until the age of 49. You have your whole life in front of you. You know your goals, keep the forward momentum until you achieve those goals, then set new ones. Having faith in yourself is the most important thing you can do.
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