YOU ARE NOT YOUR EQUIPMENT

And your equipment could never be worth as much as your creative ‘eye’…

In this current age of photography, there are quite literally thousands of options to choose from when it comes to creating an image. The lens you choose, mirrorless or DSLR, or if you’re brave enough to use film… all of your choices matter.

Let’s be honest, your choices impact you AND your subject matter. But, no one piece of equipment or combo is “better” than others. This is your reminder that it’s more about what you do with your tool, than the actual tool itself.

ANGEL # 1212

Angel # 1212 is a compilation of the energies of number 1 (appearing twice, amplifying its vibrations), and the attributes of number 2 (also appearing twice, magnifying its influences). Number 1 instills the attributes of creation and new beginnings, courage, attainment and inspiration, self-leadership, assertiveness and initiative. Number 1 relates to creating our own realities with our thoughts, beliefs and actions, and encourages us to step out of comfort zones in order to attain our goals. Number 2 represents balance and harmony, duality, faith, devotion, insight, co-operation, adaptability and diplomacy, partnerships and relationship. Number 2 also resonates with faith and trust and serving your divine life purpose and soul mission.

Angel # 1212 is a powerful sign that you are to step out of your comfort zone and take new directions and/or begin new projects and ventures that you have been wanting to do for a long time now. Angel Number 1212 encourages us to release our fears and apprehensions and get on with pursuing our passions and purpose.

Angel Number 1212 asks that you stay on a positive path and to use your natural skills, talents and abilities to their utmost for the benefit of yourself and others. Use positive affirmations and visualizations to enhance energies and draw them towards you. The more you focus on the positives, the quicker they are manifested into your reality.

“Your Mindset Will Help Define Your Identity”

When it comes to implementing a healthy mindset, some days are easier than others. 

For example, one day I may feel fantastic.

In that instance, I have lots of energy, and am in a great mood, feeling centered and stable. I feel both mentally and physically strong.

During these days, I am able to check off most of my priorities. It is easier to fight and take a stand when things seem to flow and I feel good.

Another day may be completely different.

You know those days – you feel irritated, annoyed, on edge, unmotivated, have low energy, are barely able to keep your eyes open, and basically feel like the pits. During a day such as this, I may only be able to finish a couple of the things on my list.  

The reality is that some days will be easier, and some days will be harder.

How I react and respond will help identify the person I am and strive to be.

Will I give up? Give in? Stand down? Or will I get up, fight, and stand my ground?

Do You Identify as a Warrior?

A warrior is a combination of both a fighter and a survivor. As a fighter, you take arms up against your mental health battle and fight through each day. Your weapons may not be swords and axes, but they are a healthy diet, exercise, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, possibly medications and implementing stress-reducing activities.

Yes, you are a warrior, too.

It takes courage and skill to live through each day.

Your ability to get through each day is a testament to your resolve and ability to survive. If you are reading these words, this means you are a warrior.

Excerpt/words by: John Poehler 

I AM A WARRIOR

What makes someone a warrior?

Warriors are generally associated with two kinds of courage:

(1) the ability to fight to protect themselves

(2) setting goals and developing the strength and skills to accomplish them.

I’ve always wanted to photograph my scars someday in hopes to tell a bigger story. 

A story of struggle and resilience. I’ve wanted to depict how it feels to want to disappear… but be seen at the same time. I’ve wanted to honor this body that I feel self-conscious in every day. And I’ve wanted to do all of this to prove to myself that vulnerability can somehow be strengthening. 

Truth be told, after everything happened I was actually shocked that I survived. How bizarre that this was real life, and not some fucked up dream. I consistently told myself… “you could live just one more day and be thankful for that”. And I can honestly say that I’m glad I’ve made it this far. 

818 days + 8 surgeries later.

As time passes, I find myself anxious most days. 

Will I ever accomplish the goals I’ve set out for myself?

Will my heart ever feel more at ease? How much longer until I can walk unassisted? Will I ever feel safe in my body or surroundings again? And then I realize how little control I have over the answers to these questions…

*cue: MY ANXIETY*

My mom got me this hoodie for Christmas and the front of it says: “YOU ARE BIGGER THAN WHAT IS MAKING YOU ANXIOUS.” Wearing it makes me think about all the times my anxiety has made me feel small. 

It has made me feel like I’m standing alone in a room with nothing but my thoughts. Anxiety has told me that everyone hates me and wants to see me fail. It has even gone as far as making me hate things about myself that I used to appreciate. Anxiety has made me hide from my friends. It has made me feel like I’m always in danger. And it has held me back from living my life to the fullest.

But this is an open reminder to myself and anyone else who needs it…

“YOUR ANXIETY IS LYING TO YOU”

You are important. You are not alone. You are stronger than you think. And there’s a good chance that the one thing you hate most about yourself… is someone else’s favorite thing about you. 

One day it will make more sense. 

One day it will all be worth it.