Pain changes people. Maybe for the better.

I know from experience the way a traumatic, painful experience can suddenly make a person shy and awkward or even the complete opposite -- act out and be loud.

I know from experience the way a drug or drink can make you immediately feel loose and friendly.

I know from experience the way that one bad thought can transfer into a thousand in one minute.

I know from experience that even if you think life isn't worth living today, there is a better future for you soon.

I finally decided to change my ways after several miserable, heart-wrenching incidents. I always wondered if I had to continue to go through the pain to get to the other side, the better side. The side I'm finally at.

I'm a strong believer in the theory that I had to go through the worst times in my being, all alone (or so I thought) and desperate to find a life worth living, that I wouldn't have been where I am today.

I wouldn't be better.

I wouldn't be me.

I can proudly say that I am glad I went through one drunk driving accident, two trips to the hospital, three rehab experiences, four different prescription medications and a total of 50 million depressed thoughts.

Some might ask, at what cost would you put yourself in "danger" to get yourself to a better position? Anything.

I would literally do anything to feel better.

I know that all people have different "low points" in their life. Some believe that getting a bad grade or their boyfriend dumping them is the worst that can happen. I never discourage them from thinking that, I just have my own personal low moments in life, that I prefer not to go back to. (Who would?)

However, I'll never forget them. I can't.

I'll never forget the nights I woke up confused next to a boy I didn't know.

I'll never forget the days I thought, "Everybody drinks and drives, it's not just me."

I'll never forget what I said to my parents when I was depressed and angry.

I'll never forget how I acted towards the people closest to me because I was unhappy and unwilling to change.

I'll never forget the thoughts that once crossed my mind, thinking if life was really worth it that day.

I'm glad I went through the pain.

It has only made me stronger.

"When you walk up a mountain, your legs can only get stronger."