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Choose Hope

In the past, somebody criticized me for being too positive on my blog. The truth is I write blog posts when I am in a good place. I have highs and lows just like everybody else. I choose to practice optimism and to envision a hopeful outcome. Applying a hopeful attitude is intentional. I work very hard to stay hopeful. As you know, this condition is life-long and can be saddening when compared to other conditions. 

Recently, I reflected on the idea of not having this medical challenge. If I did not have schizophrenia I would be able to work full-time. If I did not have schizophrenia I would not have to endure question and answer sessions about my health when I get involved in a romantic relationship. If I did not have schizophrenia I would enjoy life more...

Fortunately, I cut myself off this downward spiral. I reminded myself that everybody has challenges; they may not be severe such as a mental illness, but yet, and still severe. I am grateful for this life journey; challenges, blessings, lessons learned and all. I have my five senses. I am physically mobile. I have stable housing and food supply. I have a beautiful child who is in good health. I have family and friends who genuinely care about us. I have a strong support system. I have access to treatment and healthcare. I am very fortunate for all of these things and refuse to take them for granted. Therefore, I have a serious health condition, but I still have a wonderful life. 

In short, I hold on to hope by reconditioning my mind daily with positive messages. I listen to motivational speakers who remind me that I am enough. I am important, and that I can apply my whole self to experience life to the fullest, like you. I read affirmations and principles such as the 42 Ideals of Ma'at. I remind myself that I am loved, powerful, important, and amazing by how I choose to live and to view the world. I choose hope. I aim to embody hope by acknowledging my higher power and giving thanks for restoring my mind, livelihood, and peace in that I have another opportunity to be appreciative, correct mistakes, practice wisdom, love life, and everything along the way.

Lastly, I encourage you to choose hope. Continue to learn, connect, and to hope for a better future... It may be difficult, but so is life. However, hope in spite of living with schizophrenia or any challenge is possible. 
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Comments

Carolyn Moon said…
Well stated and received by many who've undergone the trauma of chronic medical/mental health challenges we face during life's journey. The balance you provide in acknowledging this fact with the benefits of hope and finding solutions that lend to optimism in the face of these exceptions warrants our attention. It's a wonderful blog and a much needed one. Thank you.
January 7, 2020 at 2:59 PM
Ashley Smith said…
Thank you very much, Carolyn.
January 10, 2020 at 11:50 AM
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