S.m.I.l.E.

Daily writing prompt

What’s a chapter of your life you’d title "The Hard Years" — and what got you through it?

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We all define “The Hard Years” differently in our lives. For me, the most challenging chapter of my life was when I started living with chronic health conditions. Having unpredictable, debilitating health conditions that dictate your everyday activities can be very frustrating and defeating. However, my faith is what gets me going every day, especially when facing the unpredictability of my illness. Secondly, creativity helps me avoid focusing too much on what my body is going through or on what I miss when I feel down. Photography, jewelry designing, and writing are my therapy. Intentionally creating something I and others can enjoy lifts my spirit. Thirdly, living with intentionality has been vital. I’ve founded a platform called S.M.I.L.E. Shared Moments Intentionally Lived and Executed. It is the foundation behind everything I do and create—from books and fine art photography to jewelry, fashion, and personal development. I intentionally look for the small blessings in life, such as a few symptom-free hours or days. I intentionally look for the beauty around me, especially during the hard days. A close-up look at a flower, an insect, or even a rock, and seeing its intricacies, bringing out its beauty through my lens, makes me SMILE. Lastly, I wouldn’t have been able to go through these chapters in my life without my family’s support. Their love is what fuels my energy.