Leah Potts

So, I received this email the other day wanting to know, how do I live my life? Especially when I get down or depressed. Below is both the question and answer. Please feel free to comment. Sharing life experience...

Ms. Potts:

I can't explain why I came across your site, I was on a friend's Facebook page and noticed some friends, who I thought I knew previously.  Thought I knew you (I didn't) but your story just leapt off the page, and as I went to your website I was drawn even more by your story.  

I have read your blog and your postings, and I've just been struck by it all.  I will just skip all of the statements regarding your commitment, courage, endurance, spirit and humanity.  I do so because the breadth of those qualities which you possess (and more) are beyond description.  

What I am writing to you about, as a complete stranger, is my wonder as to how you live your life in those smaller moments, the minutes and seconds when challenges face you when you're dead tired and don't have the discipline.  Or even yet, in those moments, where perhaps, you are back "in the dark," if that has even come to you.  Moments where the sheer weight of what occured faces you, or that challenges ahead.  Does boredom even hit you?

This isn't to suggest in any way that you cannot overcome.  I believe you have, can, and will.  But instead I want to know, put simply, if you're ever down, depressed.  How does it hit you, and how do you deal with it?

I'll admit, I am luckier than most people in the world.  I'm an attorney in Michigan (relatively new one too, I'm 26), with a family, friends, working, seemingly "on track."  but there are moments when I almost can't face it all, life.  I can't explain why, or if it reflects a deeper problem.  The passion fades, the spark goes out.  I even used to exercise, keep myself healthy, enjoy the outdoors.  now those moments are more sporadic.  But then I read someone like you, who has done what you have done, and literally it gives energy to me as the reader.

I suppose at the end of the day the question I have for you is this: how do you live your life?  It's a loaded question to be sure, but one I'd like to ask you.  And of course I'm sorry if I come across as deranged, but again I am a rational person who was struck by your story and who felt compelled to write you.  I'm a stranger I admit, but just someone trying to find that spark, that meaning, that love and passion of life you so clearly have.  I won't bug you, but just figured I'd ask you the questions that came to mind.

Needless to say, I wish you all the best in your journey.  From what I can see your treatment has progressed amazingly well, and you face even better prospects.  I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

All the best,

A

Click "Read More" for my thoughts... 

Hi A,

Thanks for the email.

As you and I both know life is full of ups and downs, highs and lows.. I think of it as the eb and flow of life. No one can escape;  rich or poor, abled bodied or not. In fact I don't think any of us are to get out without a few obstacles, we all have something to overcome. I actually believe that the dark days are when we grow as a living animal called the human being. Not saying it feels good or I enjoy the moment. What doesn't kill us only makes us stronger... Right? 

Talking dark side and depression, I hear pain, anxiety, overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, hungry tired...the list goes on. It's a time to listen to the body and actually hear what it is trying to say. Awareness, understanding and forgiveness. Forgiveness is a big one; forgiving yourself first and then others. Sets you free.

Yes, I have down days. I'm human; I feel pain. I wonder why me? I beg for a few moments to be out of my body and experience life again with less pain, struggle, walking, dancing, roaming freely... When the "why me" begins to resurface, I acknowledge it, support it, give it what it needs and move on. Over time I have come to realize I'm usually overwhelmed, tired, or hungry...possibly all three. After I have had time to rest, recover and restore (eat and sleep!) I wake with a whole new mindset. Back on track, thinking positive.... When I need to cry, I cry; when I need to scream, I scream (preferably at home, alone)...releasing the energy. I also talk to friends. The ones I can vent to without judgement. 

In order to stay positive I work towards balance, a little bit of everything. Work, exercise, diet, rest, hanging out with friends... By the way, your too young to stop exercising, it's a lifestyle.

These are some of  the things that keep me motivated:

Prayer, Visualization, Meditation, Forgiveness

Daily Exercise- to release endorphins, build strength, gain flexibility, which also relieves stress. 

Healthy Diet- fruits, veggies, good fats, lean protein, water.

Positive Thinking

Setting  Goals

Good Friends

Life Experiences, Exploring, Learning

We all have obstacles or something to over come. Staying healthy and  fit keep me positive, motivated and that in return keeps my spirit high and full of life. It's when I quit moving or get lazy that my body shuts down, thoughts become negative, depression begins to creep back in. Little changes everyday with forgiveness and understanding for yourself and others. 

Your Assignment! Write 5 things you are thankful for every morning before you have your breakfast, tea or coffee. Perspective is everything.

Hope I answered your questions and this gives you some insight. Let me know.

My Best, L