What is a hero? Which definition, because there are a few. Are we talking like the Marvel and DC universe heroes? Tights, supernatural abilities, limitless amounts of cash and gadgets? Or maybe someone normal who saves starving children in third world countries and owns charity organizations. Also, with limitless amounts of cash and publicity to match. Both of these are often someone of great luck, stunning good looks, and large amounts of cash to back them.

So as you are reading this, you probably have your hero in your mind. Maybe they struggled at one point in their lives and you can relate to that. They became a famous actor from a small town, or a politician who changes the lives of many with their decisions. Or maybe it is one of the many comic heroes we have grown to adore on the big screens because of their strength and the obstacles they have overcome as well. This is a common choice, as we wish to be what we are not in so many ways. Or, your family member that has provided so much support for you or has shown to be capable of great things in this world and you wish to be just like them, a doctor or a marine even.

Not me. Never me. Looking up to someone was something I could do once as a child, before having gone through all the many obstacles of life myself. However, my heroes were not there to save me. In my darkest days and toughest nights, they failed me. I could not look to them for guidance in my situations because they were never in my shoes. This does not make me bitter or change my opinion of them as a whole, however. They are still significant figures in my life of whom I hold in great regard.

My new hero, is myself. Shocking coming from someone who has some of the lowest self esteem to exist. Due to the hardships I have experienced I have grown as a person and my outlook on many things has been altered. I have come out on top or at least no longer on the bottom from most of the events.

One good thing you learn, is to accept the things that come at you as learning experiences. You cannot change the outcome of everything, but you can definitely become a better human being from them. This is a trait that not many have, and I pride myself in having this trait and utilizing it during hard times.

Despite suffering mental illness, which does not define me, I have conquered much battle ground in life and grow stronger every day knowing there is always more battles to fight. My fight may not be the hardest, but it is the one I know. And that is why I am my own hero.