When I heard the ringing of the gong, I became aware that somewhere along the way of the last few years of my life I had drifted from the pursuit of a personal, authentic existence to being someone and living in a way I didn't authentically resonate with, holding beliefs I never consciously chose.

Worry does not give us control. It does not prevent loss, guarantee outcomes, or protect us from being hurt. At best, it is rehearsal; at worst, it is self-inflicted punishment for a future that may never arrive. Most of what we fear never happens—and when something finally does, we meet it with the same tools we always had. All that worry in between does not prepare us. It only wears us down.

When I reflect back on my life, whether 10 months ago or 12 years ago, it is so clear to me that I have grown and I am growing. I am a stronger person today than I was back then, but I also know it's because of what happened back then. Those moments made me, and yours are making you.

Anyone can lie to themselves, but it is much harder to speak truth to yourself. But when you do, the other side feels much better.