Dear Friends,

I used to have a way of thinking that I am completely not proud of. I don't know if anyone else thought this way but, I was a big believer in sypathy. Patronizing my self was almost a daily affirmation in the way that I could not sleep until I found something about my life that was wrong. I understood that I wasn't the only one that had it bad out there. I didn't feel alone. I just felt that I, like many people out in the world today didn't deserve what happens to me on a daily basis. I am not gonna go into things because for the first time in my life I feel like my hardships and problems are not for public use. They shouldn't be flaunted or thrust upon people whatever the intention may be. I do admit that I never once wanted sympathy from another. Yet, I acted as though It was a perverbial "IOU"
that anyone I have every met was branded with at birth. But, as I said...this is the way I used to think.

Today I realized something. I was created. I was placed in the spot that I am in. My life has gone the way it has and, furthermore, I have endured all the laughs, cries, loves, hates for one reason. Because I was made for it. Why would my creator (who ever he or she may be) create me and then throw me into all these tough situations that I can't handle. That's the question I used to ask. But, really there is no question. There is only that answer. That answer: "The only reason I am in this mess is because I have the ability to handle it"

No one plays a video game that's impossible to win. No body plays Volleyball against a bunch of 5 year olds. The reason why is because no one wants to play the game if it's so easy it's ridiculous. Just like no one wants to play if you are guarenteed from the start that you are gonna lose. That's why we all go through what we go through. Because deep down...we have the power to win. We have the power to make it. That's why it's not easy. It's also why it's not so hard that's impossible.

I leave you all with the questions that helped me get over this hump.

What is better than hitting that three-pointer to win the game?

What is better than spiking that getting that slapshot off the ground for the first time after months of practice?

What is better than playing that guitar riff with ease after messing up so many times?

What is better than than winning, when you know you worked so hard for it and despite everyone else telling you it couldn't be done....you did it.

Why? Cause you were made to do it.

love you guys.

Anthony