There are so many days where I struggle to move forward, wondering if there indeed is any point.

And I think the answer is yes. It’s often impossible to see, and it’s even harder to hold onto in the dark, but despite it all, I have hope.

It’s hard to believe, especially when the modern world of mass media consumption thrives on the extreme and shocking; painting a picture of global hatred, intolerance for others, violence, war and injustice filling every page of news, every inch of our screens, every post in our feeds, poisoning our minds with the idea that to continue living is hopeless.

And yet, we do.

Despite all that we face, there are millions of ordinary people who achieve amazing things. People who can all tell stories of survival, courage and bravery beyond your wildest imagination. People who walking down the street who you wouldn’t even second glance at. People who have struggled through some of the most difficult experiences of the modern age, who continue to move forward in their lives regardless of the expectations of failure and defeat.

It’s these people, and friends who have shared some of these stories that give me hope. Hope that we are building a better future. Hope that by being open and honest with each other and those around us that we are changing the narrative, reclaiming words and experiences that were once used to harm us, to drive social change and equity for all.

I’ve had people say the same to me about my story, and I struggle to believe them; but at the very least I know that it means I have value, that just existing is enough, and there are others who feel the same.

Know that I have hope for you too, and all that you will achieve.