Daniel T.
Photography by Jerry Stamatelatos
If you’re reading this, remember that everything happens for a reason.
You are not alone — there are people here for you, people who want to see your smile, and people who believe in you even on days when you don’t believe in yourself. Everyone goes through struggles where they feel like nothing is working out, where they want to give up, or when the future feels uncertain. But that is not the truth. A single moment of hardship does not define you. What defines you is how you rise from it, how you take that challenge and turn it into strength. You have already come so far, so keep pursuing that dream of yours with courage.
When obstacles appear, give yourself permission to pause. Step outside and notice the world: the air on your face, the sound of footsteps, the colors of the sky. Listen to a song that lifts your spirit, or call a friend just to hear their voice. Sometimes it’s the smallest moments — an unexpected laugh, a kind word, or a simple “How are you?” — that bring the most light into your day. These little reminders prove that you are never as alone as you think.
There are countless opportunities waiting for you. There are people you haven’t met yet who will inspire you, friendships that will fill your life with joy, and moments ahead that will make you realize how far you’ve come. Imagine all the things you haven’t done yet: the places you’ll travel to, the goals you’ll accomplish, the people whose lives you’ll touch without even knowing it. The world is holding doors open for you, and each step you take brings you closer to discovering them.
A challenge does not exist to break you. It exists to build you, to teach you, to prepare you for something greater. Every hardship is a lesson, every setback a chance to grow. Strength is not about never falling — it’s about rising again and again, each time stronger than before. Wisdom is found in those who face difficulties, yet return with courage, determination, and greater resilience.
So when you feel like stopping, remember that your story is far from over. This moment is not your ending — it’s just a page. Your life is a chapter book, and you are only writing the first few lines of the very first volume. Ahead of you lies an entire series, filled with hope, love, and victories you cannot yet imagine. One day you will look back on these pages, smile, and say, “Wow—I made it through, and I am stronger because of it.”
Never forget: you matter. You are important in ways you may not see right now. Your presence brings value to others, through your kindness, your energy, and simply by being you. The world would not be the same without you in it. Keep moving forward, because your best chapters are still unwritten.
At the end of the day, everything will not just be okay — it will be beautiful.
Daniel T., New York University
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