I've lived and you can't convince me otherwise
Instagram has fooled me before. Influencers with their polished cars and toned bodies made me feel like I lacked what they had. I walked around with anxiety no one could see, and a self-hatred that made no sense.
I've removed social media and other such indulgences from my life. I can see things for what they are. My life is better than millions of others. In fact, I know people who would give a kidney with a smile on their face to experience what I have.
I'm still young and come from a humble background. I had to work my ass off to build what I have. When I look at my past, I can't deny that I have lived.
I know what it's like to follow your passion with relentless drive. I know what it's like to imagine yourself a centurion at the MCG, surrounded by a hundred thousand screaming fans, raising your bat and helmet to return their praise.
I know what it's like when your dreams are shattered by one doctor's opinion after another. I know what it's like when your body isn't built well enough to match what you hold inside your head.
I know betrayal and I know friends who would die for you.
I know what it's like to be a failure after a decade of success in school. I know the magic of luck and how it can turn your life around.
I know hard work and the endless pursuit of a better life for my family. I know how to take care of people who depend on me.
I know good friendships, delicious meals, beautiful countries, blue lakes and green mountains.
I know how it feels to be mad in love with someone you can't have. I know heartbreak that doesn't fully leave, even after you've moved on.
I know when your spirit is broken and you can't point at anything or anyone to explain it.
I know when you're gutted inside but you put a smile on and get through the motions because that's easier than the explanations.
I've tasted success, applause, respect, and excellence in my craft.
I know what it's like when others look up to you, hold you as an inspiration, and hope they can live a life somewhere close to what you have.
I've fought battles inside my head too. I know what it's like to have those demons. I've known addiction, broken promises with myself, and too many turns through the self-improvement rabbit hole. I've known the struggle to follow through on what I committed to.
I know all of this and more. I have lived life, and I don't need a damn influencer to tell me otherwise.
I'm sure you've lived one too. There ain't no one agreed-upon way=. Everyone is winging it as they go.
The only person who gets to decide if I've spent my time on worthy pursuits is me. Same applies to you.