a fresh start

Here we come out of the cold, gray, wintry months, into the sunshine of a new spring. As the weather has turned warmer, I've committed to let my heart turn with it. To be a better person, happier, more open and outgoing.

There once was a time when I was sinking -- I was doing too much, expecting too much, never allowing myself time to breath -- and this was keeping me from doing the things that I wanted to.

The things I want to do. I have a simple, yet lofty goal. To make a difference. A while ago I didn't realize how important this was to me. But something happened to remind me. I'm one of those people who goes to donate blood every eight weeks, as soon as I am eligible to again. Well two months ago, I went in to the donation center like usual, and began the process. But my blood clotted up and I was unable to finish the whole amount. This meant that my blood would not be used to save someones life. I hadn't realized how much even just that act of donating meant to me until that day. I was a little surprised with how upset I was that I was not able to complete the donation.

Now I have come to realize what my drive is for all that I do. I want to make a difference. I know I have the ability to influence others and change the world for the better. A few months ago, my school was involved in a cancer awareness program. Suddenly I discovered my career. That was the turning point in my life when I really knew what I wanted to do. Biomedical research, so I could help to eliminate that terrible source of pain for so many people and their families.

The world is constantly changing, in so many ways. But it all starts with just one person. But one important truth I have learned over the years is that you must help yourself before you help others. Sometimes you can do both at the same time, but if you aren't in a good place, and try to get others there, you might both get into trouble.

So here is my fresh start! Beginning anew with the sunshine, I am going to be happy myself, and do all that I can to make a difference, and bring more happiness into the world.