My heart is full - mind enlightened - purpose found

To try and express what the past 30 days has meant to me is nearly impossible. But I can say without a doubt, I have found something inside of me that I never knew existed. A burning passion to help those who suffer as I did. A year ago I was in the darkest place in my mind, with no hope or desire to live. My last suicide attempt was September, 24th 2017 and I can powerfully say I’m so grateful to still be here. This trip was to celebrate me literally making it through my 20’s alive and to take a chance at sharing myself with others. I left 30 days ago with less than half of the flights booked or itinerary planned and one of my favorite quotes really hit home with me after accomplishing my goal: “I think therefore I am” (“Cogito, ergo sum”) – René Descartes

I feel I have more energy than when I started and a new perspective that a beautiful change can occur in this world. I can see a world where people love themselves and from that a love for others will follow. This trip is just the beginning of an even bigger plan to make a difference in the lives of others. The experiences I’ve had and the knowledge gained on depression and suicide in the countries I traveled through, I can’t just walk away with a few souvenirs and good conversations. My heart is eternally grateful to those who believed in me and helped me believe in myself; whether it be kind words, donations or love, I would not have succeeded in this 30 day journey without you. I feel I have found my purpose and my dearest friend who knows the life-changing experience I had, shared this quote with me: “There are two great days in a person’s life - the day we are born and the day we discover why.”

If you’re reading this right now I just want you to know that I love you. That others love you and you deserve a life that is full of happiness. I don’t know exactly what the future holds but I hope to make a difference no matter how big or small that difference might be.

Let’s be real. Let’s be genuine. And let's follow our bliss.

Final Quotes

“There is but one truly serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide”

– Albert Camus

“The most important thing you will ever do in your life is learn to embrace your unique, honest self. A boundless, infinitely populated universe and there is nothing else here quite like you. This is your power. All those things that make you strange and different also make you irreplaceable.”

– Beau Taplin