Member-only story

Lessons and Worries from an Ink Stained Life

Ismael Hayes

·12.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Newsroom Confidential: Lessons (and Worries) From An Ink Stained Life

4 min read · 2 weeks before

223 View Claps

51 Respond

Save

Listen

<li>**Follow your heart, but don't be afraid to take risks.** The path to your dreams is rarely easy. There will be obstacles along the way, and there will be times when you doubt yourself. But if you believe in something, don't give up. Take risks, and don't be afraid to fail. Failure is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign that you are trying, and that you are learning.</li> <li>**Surround yourself with people who believe in you.** Not everyone will understand your dreams. But there are people who will support you, and who will help you to believe in yourself. Cherish these people, and let them know how much they mean to you.</li> <li>**Don't compare yourself to others.** Everyone is on their own unique journey. There is no point in comparing yourself to others. Focus on your own progress, and celebrate your own achievements.</li> <li>**Be grateful for what you have.** It's easy to get caught up in the things we don't have. But it's important to remember all the good things in our lives. Be grateful for your health, your family, your friends, and all the other things that make you happy.</li>

<li>**Fear of the unknown.** What does the future hold? Will I be happy? Will I be successful? Will I be loved?</li> <li>**Fear of loss.** I am afraid of losing the people I love. I am afraid of losing my health. I am afraid of losing myself.</li> <li>**Fear of change.** Change is inevitable, but it's still scary. I am afraid of the unknown. I am afraid of what the future may hold.</li> <li>**Fear of death.** Death is a part of life, but it's still a mystery. I am afraid of what will happen to me when I die. I am afraid of the unknown.</li>

My worries are real, but they do not define me. I am more than my fears. I am also a person of hope. I believe in the power of dreams. I believe in the power of love. I believe in the power of good.

I know that the future is uncertain, but I am not afraid. I am armed with the lessons I have learned and the support of the people I love. I will face my fears head-on, and I will not be defeated.

I don't know what the future holds, but I am excited to find out. I am ready for the challenges that lie ahead, and I am confident that I will overcome them. I am ready to live a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.