Hi, this one’s for you! I might not fully understand all that you’re enduring or the responsibilities you carry quietly. I can’t always know the weight of the fears or uncertainties that creep in at times, but I do have a message for you. Even if it sounds like a cliché, or even if you’ve heard similar words from others, I say this: hang in there. Sometimes, we find ourselves facing situations we can’t quite explain, and we might even feel overwhelmed by worry. But it's okay not to be okay. It’s important to accept what we can’t change and focus on changing what we can.
Some years ago, I came across a quote that said, “The longer you stay on a train headed in the wrong direction, the longer it will take to get back.” But today, I’m suggesting that it’s not always wrong to keep going down a path that seems uncertain—so long as you truly believe it’s the right one for you. Just like the person who discovered fire, you might not always know exactly how things will turn out, but you have to keep trying. If the world were perfect and free of mistakes, would we have reached the level of progress and innovation that we have today? Making mistakes is sometimes how we find new parts of ourselves. Let each challenge, every failure, and every pain become a stepping stone to reaching your true potential. They say that the pain of loss often leads to a faster recovery.
When faced with despair, hopelessness, or disappointment, what do you do? Do you cry, scream, talk to others, or do things that help release your emotions without harming yourself or anyone else? I say, do it even more—don’t be afraid to express how you feel. I’ve learned this the hard way, after many years of bottling up my emotions, especially because of the cultural expectations back home that men shouldn’t cry.
Remember that today’s achievements are simply yesterday’s dreams, the things that once seemed impossible. The progress you’ve made so far is evident, and no storm should be allowed to erase your hard-earned steps. Each day brings you closer to your nirvana. The key is in how strong and determined you remain in getting there. Don’t wait for anyone else to recognize your worth—give yourself credit now, because you absolutely deserve it.
The phrase "I didn’t see that coming" is often used when we’re caught in regret or blaming ourselves, but honestly—how could you have known? Even with our instincts guiding us, sometimes things slip through the cracks. Instead, try replacing that phrase with “I’m glad I now know.” It’s a more positive approach, one that appreciates the growth and learning you’ve gained along the way.
Above all, go out and enjoy life. Live it to the fullest. Make memories, meet new people, pursue your passions, and smile more. Appreciate each experience and look back on it with a sense of gratitude. The real journey is just beginning, and the boat is slowly setting sail. Who do you want to be when you reach the end of this journey? Aluta Continua, Victoria e Certa! (The struggle continues, victory is certain!)
Lastly, remember that Tufts offers mental health and counseling services, which are available through the university’s website. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever need someone to talk to, and consider checking out the student counseling program as well.