Packet of Wildflower Seeds

On the last day I had my seniors, I tried to give them an inspirational talk. It sounded better the second time I gave it after I had a chance to focus and refine it. Of course this isn't the exact speech, but this is generally what I told my students: Throughout the course of the year, there have been two things we didn't necessarily explicitly discuss but which I hope have been the foundation of everything we've done. The first is faith. I personally believe that the study of science is also a way to learn about God. Since God is universal, everything in nature reflects Him. It is amazing to consider how DNA controls all body functions or how the laws of physics operate in the universe. So many scientific phenomena and principles are intricate yet elegant. Even after learning about them, you still can't believe they are possible. Whether you believe that God created the world as described in the Bible, that there is no God, or that the truth lies somewhere in be...

I've been struggling a little more than usual lately. I don't know if stress or other circumstances have played a role, but I know that I've had a hard time accepting myself and being positive in the past month or so. Over the weekend, I woke up and felt in my soul that I am going to die from this disease. Now, before you call 911 on my behalf, I don't mean that I am planning to take my own life. Many days, though, I feel that my condition has already sucked the life out of me. In so many ways, depression is winning. I'm never sure if I will find enough happiness to make up for the pain and doubt I experience. I don't know if I will ever be comfortable with myself. I wonder if I can let go of my fears and regrets. When things don't seem worthwhile, it's possible that I won't take care of myself like I should, which could impact my health. Many other conditions are also linked to depression. If they manifest, their physical toll could send me fu...

By now you know a little bit about my story, and there is a good chance you also know other individuals struggling with anxiety or depression. You may be wondering about some ways you can support those who are suffering from mental illness. I am certainly not an an expert, but in my experience, it is most helpful when someone stands by me (emotionally and physically) when I am in my worst moments. You have to show your friends that you love them, ugly parts and all. During one of my most difficult periods several years ago, I struggled to function normally. Leaving the house - or even my room - was a challenge. During that time, an individual confronted me about missing church, saying he was "concerned for my soul." In my depressed state, I heard, "I think you're going to hell." And while the individual may have been looking out for my spiritual well-being, he never once asked about my emotional state. He never once asked what he could do to support me. I ...