Keep Going. Keep Trying.

These women are ten years apart. They are both dreamers. Both eagerly anticipate the future. And both have experienced inexplicable tragedy.

The first picture was taken in the spring of 2007 by my friend Travis L. FranI remember the little white buds were coming in on the trees outside of the dining hall on campus. When they fell, it looked like snowflakes had covered the red brick. amphitheater.

I remember feeling terrified because my plan to become a midwife was shattered the semester before and I was starting over. The question loomed over me constantly. "What do you want to do?" Part of me wanted to quit, go home, and work again until I figured it out. Yet, another part whispered, "Keep going. Keep trying."

I took a different path. Literature. I had loved writing since I was a little girl but had been advised against pursuing it as a career. People laughed at me.

"What will you do with that?"

"Are you going to law school later?"

"You'll be in debt forever!"

But I loved it. I loved writing and reading these wonderful novels more than anything.

I had inspiring teachers who challenged me. Like Donna J. Summerlin, Andrew Lee, and Carolyn Dirksen.

They pushed me to better myself even when it was so hard. Even when I was sick or tired. Even when the rest of my world fell apart.

They said, "Keep going. Keep trying."

Ten years later, I still have people question why I chose this path. Today, a person asked what I do. I explained that I'm a mother and a writer hoping to publish my novels. She rolled her eyes and asked me why I didn't want a real job. I smiled and wished her a good day.

Because I know when I go home, my characters will come to life on the page. I'll be the mistress of my own sail. And even if I never formally publish, I'll have spent my creativity until the last drop. For that, I think the girl in the first picture would thank me.