The word “experience” seems to perpetually surround me.
In our society (especially in the bay area), I feel that we are pushed to go out: to experience life for ourselves, to take risks, and to step out of our comfort zones. We are constantly surrounded by quotes and phrases telling us that we should push ourselves to do our best and be the best. From posts on Facebook to comments from family and friends, we are implicitly and explicitly taught that we are the key to our own destiny. Wether good or bad, we are constantly encouraged to do better.
A lot of the time, it seems like a struggle getting my point across when I feel like such a small person living in such a gigantic world. Through my writing with Odyssey, I hope to find a safe and comfortable way to express myself, while also striving to help and encourage others to share their own “experiences.” Each experience is unique and special, and I believe that each and every person deserves a voice in the world.
I have struggled with depression for a huge part of my life. Like almost anyone, I have had ups and downs in my life, some more significant than others, but all equally important. I am a firm believer that every experience that a person has is a teaching moment—with every experience, something can be learned or gained. This is especially important for me to remember for me, as I want to be a teacher.
I have wanted to be a teacher since I was little. When I was younger, I would write my favorite names down on a piece of paper, and pretend that I was taking roll call. As I get older, I become more and more interested in psychology and development. Currently, I am an elementary education major, but I am hoping to minor in psychology as well.
Each person is a sum of their own experiences. Whether pleasant or unpleasant, I believe that each experience a person has impacts their life. As I previously said, something can be taught from each experience a person has.
Recently, I was told that it is a possibility that I may be living with bipolar disorder. This is very scary and overwhelming to hear. Sometimes, it is easier to sort of laugh it off. I like to use satirical word play to get my point across, especially when discussing hot topics that people generally feel uncomfortable talking about.
At this point in my life, I can positively say that although it may be hard to see at times, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes the wind is blowing the flame so much that it is barely visible. However, it is always there; even in your worst moment.
Although experience is a tricky word, especially in society today, I hope that this article has given at least some insight into my thoughts on the word experience.
