May 15, 2018

A THANK YOU FROM SABREENA SALEEM

I REFLECT OFTEN. Most of my writing is actually a product of self-reflection.  I can't really just sit down and write. I stew on things in my head until they become fully-developed thoughts - that's the hard work - and then the writing comes easily.

I used to reflect so much I had trouble actually doing anything. I strive to be the best, most understanding, compassionate version of myself, and the only way for me to do that is to be critical of myself. But I'm often too hard on myself and I don't give myself the credit I deserve.

Over the last week or so, I've begun to reflect on the last year. At this exact time of year last year, I was completely broken mentally. I was lost and experienced loss. But as I sit here, typing on my own website, wearing my own merch, phone going off with friends I adore, job I love and have excelled in, I can't help but feel proud of the growth and success I've undergone in the last 12 months.

So I just want to take a quick moment to thank my friends and family for constantly reminding me who I am. Mom, Dad, Nadia, Yasmin, Amanda, Victoria, Christine, Jay, Milissa, Courtney - you all consistently validate the one thing that gives me purpose, and that's my writing and ultimately my character. You lift me up when I'm too hard on myself, and you always support all of my endeavors. I couldn't be more thankful.

And to anyone else who reads my writing - you don't understand how much you encourage me. It's hard to believe that anyone other than my best friends and family actually care about what I do or what I say. I want nothing more than to be a voice for the unheard or silenced, the person who says what everyone's thinking but are too afraid to say, an example that you can do anything you put your mind to and to be the one who helps you do it.

You're all wonderful and you give me a reason to get out of bed everyday. Even when my demons tell me not to. I'm here for you always.

With love,
Sabreena