Dear Young Folks,
As early as the age of 14, I yearned for a freedom I knew wouldn’t come easily. I had a dream and a vision of everything I wanted, etched vividly in my mind.
The years rolled by, and with every opportunity that came my way, I carefully executed my plans, one step at a time. However, as I grew older, the path to fulfilling my desires became more challenging. Along the way, I created more enemies, faced unforeseen battles, and waged wars I never anticipated.
When I took my first shot at breaking free in 2013, I was unprepared for the struggles that had plagued my growth over the years. The freedom I once sought seemed to be consuming me, and at some point, I fell into a dark pit of despair. Yes, depression is real, and if not properly managed, it can make death seem like the only way to escape the weight of one’s worries.
It’s easy to assume that everything is perfect when looking at the curated life I once displayed online. But pain is real, and it’s personal. I won’t air my dirty laundry here, but I will say this: if therapy is an option for you, don’t hesitate to seek it.
In the eye of the storm, pause. Take a deep breath. Reassess your position, re-strategize, reinvent yourself, rebrand, and above all, stay alive. The most valuable gift is life itself, and the ultimate victory belongs to the one who endures to fight another day.
A part of me was deeply broken in 2024, and that version of myself was laid to rest with the outgone year. It’s sad to bid farewell to the person I once was, but as I mourn him, I’m here, finding the courage to break free from trauma, rebuild, and improve my engagements moving forward.
To young adults:
Stay steadfast and focused in the pursuit of your dreams. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but your resilience and determination will lead to unimaginable growth. Do not be discouraged by setbacks or overwhelmed by the expectations of others. Instead, channel your energy into building the life you envision. As the saying goes, “Success comes to those who work hard and work smart; it’s not just about laboring, but about striving with wisdom and purpose.”
Wishing you all the very best in 2025.
Cheers
IA
