Many have deemed this word, "struggle," with a negative connotation. This term definitely does not mean having it all together, but in a way this can be just the lens through which beauty can be seen. There is a certain essence that comes with not having it all figured out. Also, it can be uniquely relatable to not know the answer to the equation.

The actual definition of struggle says, "to try very hard to do, achieve, or deal with something that is difficult or that causes problems." Some may look at this definition and might think that this term sounds challenging, uncomfortable or unpleasant. While all of these responses may seem accurate, there is one side I think we tend to skim over.

There is a beauty to the struggle. There is a certain admirable quality of those who work hard and challenge themselves to achieve their goals. An undeniable connection to humanity can be seen through this word, "struggle." Unless you've had a flawless life, which if you have I'd like to know your secret (seriously!), then I doubt you have ever related to or used the term "struggle.

Regardless of who you talk to on a day to day basis, there is not one person who isn't struggling through something. Everyone has their own set of challenges, difficulties and what seems like never-ending to-do lists and so on. And we're all struggling for a reason; we want to get better, we want to improve. None of us would be hustling through our day to day schedules running errands, working, going to classes, whatever it may be, without a motive to succeed.

It is easy to think that our lives are so hard and at times can feel impossible. It's not hard to pity yourself or to assume that you have it worse than others. Trust me; you do not. Every individual has a story with its trials and tribulations, as well as times of joy and accomplishment. In a sense, struggle is an important factor in your story, my story, and everyone's. Without this struggle there is not progress. In order to grow as individuals, it is necessary to obtain the ability to solve challenging problems or situations. We can never predict when or how they will come, but we will always have some sort of problem that we have to find a way to deal with.

We all have our own mountain to climb. It's up to us if we continue to the top or if we stay at the bottom. Reaching our peak will of course take some struggling, but that's OK. Thinking back on certain experiences in my life, I realize that I would not be the same person today had I not gone through those struggles. These struggles were never something easy, but taught me to work through difficult times and to persevere. Those struggles have etched into my character and have become a part of my story and for that I am grateful. However, my story isn't over yet, and I assume if you're reading this, then neither is yours.