Daniela H.
Photography by Ashley Kung
If you’re reading this, choose love.
I have always been an incredibly anxious person, struggling to live in the moment. I want to do everything all at once and struggle to say no to people and opportunities. My freshman year at UF was spent in an endless cycle of comparison and self-loathing, which consumed me so much that I barely had love to give my friends, family, and especially myself. Additionally, I felt like I was unworthy of being loved, and after years of trying to get the imaginary approval of some nonexistent person, I gave up.
But people did love me. My friends staged an “intervention,” my mom noticed my weird behavior, and my roommate offered me endless support. That summer, I went to therapy and chose to love myself and others.
But it isn't that easy, is it?
Choosing love is hard. The last three years have presented me with various opportunities to choose love or fear. Sometimes I choose love. Sometimes, the fear consumes me. However, all the defining moments of my time here have been due to choosing love. I deeply enjoy each and every one of my classes because I love my major and chosen career path. My improved relationship with my self-image is because I have chosen to love and accept my body and mind. These years have allowed me to grow in old relationships, form new ones, and even fall in love.
The world can be a scary place. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by a constant news cycle of disaster and tragedy. I know it certainly overwhelms me, and makes me feel completely helpless at times. But what do I do in these moments? You may already know the answer. I choose love.
For me, I changed the little things. I fostered a dog for a few months until she was adopted. I've tried to reduce my meat consumption to help the environment. And I joined an organization called Flipping the System. FTS exists as a beacon of light and love in these scary times. Not only do we volunteer and spread awareness to prevent sexual assault, but we also have a unique opportunity to connect with other ambassadors who share your passion. Their support helped me grow into my current position and contribute my own ideas and initiatives. Working to create positive change is my favorite way to show my love.
As you can see, love can refer to many things. But I encourage you to reflect on who and what you love, and do everything you can to let that drive you forward. Love yourself, love those around you, and the rest will come.
Daniela Hoyos, VP of Advocacy, Flipping the System University of Florida
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