Real-Talk: It's #NSPW16, a week greatly supported by @TWLOHA . Last year I decided to help raise awareness. Seems fitting I do the same this year....cause it's been a trip: I nearly lost half a finger, I finally went to Europe, I was in a car accident, I made new friends, I made poor decisions, I met a personal hero (@akrieger11 , and she signed my jersey!), I got some more tattoos, I traveled for work more than I wanted to....and finally, I was 100% transparent with my family. Some of this was fun, some was painful. But through it, I've learned that we can surprise ourselves...and people can surprise you. And for all the bad that can come with that (bigotry, fear, etc)...there is so, so much good too. Pure smiles, amazing hugs, the feeling of being genuinely loved, non-stop laughter so good it hurts, support, and kindness. This year, #IKeptLiving my story. Every day hundreds of people choose to give up on theirs. (And some people have that choice taken away by crimes of hate) Millions of people suffer through untreated depression or addiction because of all the stigma, ignorant judgements, or the fear that they're alone. They're not alone. No one has to be alone. Everyone's story is important. I've learned that. And (while I'm still learning), if being willing to stand up for others and make myself vulnerable helps someone out there know that, then here I am. Me. Human. If you want to get educated, have lost a loved one to mental illness, addiction, or hate, or could just use some inspiration: checkout and support twloha.com. ------------------------------------- #twloha #iamenough #youareenough #liveboldly #bethechange #loveislove #beyourbestyou #beagoodperson #findthesilverlining #nooneelsecanplayyourpart #helpisreal #nspw #yourstorymatters #thisjacketthough #swag
