I am a perfectionist, plain and simple. At times, it is a wonderful trait to possess. Things tend to remain intact, and I am able to accomplish most goals to an extent of my liking. Yet, at other times, the qualities that follow alongside being a perfectionist tend to act as more of a curse than a blessing.
When even the slightest of details in my life appear to be off, it often consumes my mind. Whether the conflicts are found within my friendships, relationships, academics or my social life, the inner-perfectionist within me seems to leave me feeling empty and unsatisfied, constantly wondering what I did to fail the situation in its entirety. I dwell and I dwell until I come to the realization that everything happens for a reason, and that some things are just not meant to be perfect. But, that does not mean that I should overlook the remainder of the blessings in my life.
Perfection is unrealistic. Not every time I attempt to obtain the perfect grades, or an unflawed relationship will I succeed. Though my losses may leave me feeling at my absolute worst, it is at those times that I remind myself to gaze at the bigger picture of all that I do have, and all that I am eternally grateful for.
I am thankful for the people I hold close, the places I most enjoy spending my time, and the multitude of opportunities I have come face to face within recent days. It is these things that keep me going, and without them, I know in my heart that I would be an entirely different person.
It is time for each of us to stop wishing to possess all that we have never had. There is a certain beauty found within gratitude, and it is our responsibility to show our respect for all we have been given.