lately i’ve found myself picking up this weird habit of raising my arms straight up high in the air with fists clenched as if i’ve won some sort of battle; i pace around the living room when everybody else is asleep and do this odd little eccentricity late at night on my way to bed. i would feel totally ridiculous if somebody were to see me, but in the quiet solitude of nighttime my insanity feels no judgment.

strangely enough, this act is immensely empowering, and i feel like i actually have emerged triumphant over the invisible conflicts and struggles i face during the day. it is a reminder to me that i am strong, that i have worth, that i have the right to be proud of myself, and i can go to sleep knowing that i gave today my best. if i learned something new, if i gave someone love, if i made someone’s day, if i improved even one small aspect of my life.. then i won, and i deserve to raise my arms up in victory.

my summer here on this island is quickly wrapping up. i had an amazing time, and getting a chance to be a part of the lives of those i love once more has given me immense strength and encouragement, which i needed more than anyone would ever know.

to tell you the truth, i’m not the one raising these arms of mine.. you are.