never in my life have I gotten everything I've ever wanted the way I have the past few months.

the last 2 years of my life were the worst I've ever gone through; consistent pain, hardship, being kicked when I was down over and over, and there were so many times I didn't think I'd make it. when I remember all the nights I lay awake begging the universe to just make it stop hurting, to give me the strength to keep going; and to think now I'm here.

I worked hard every single day. Some days the hard work was just existing. Other days the hard work was dragging myself through therapy. Exercising. Forcing myself to eat. Not giving into self harm. Setting boundaries. Evaluating myself and my behaviour. Understanding healthy relationships, with others and myself. College applications. Job applications. Interviews. Learning to date again. Letting myself open up to someone new. Trusting someone new to treat me with the love and respect I deserve. Saying yes to the opportunities I worked so hard for.