The New Chapter of Rhys

Today marks the beginning of a fresh "About Me" narrative, one that reflects the new and improved version of myself. After taking an eight-month hiatus from writing, I am slowly regaining my footing. I am now a happy Rhys—the 2023 version.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

I reached some of the lowest points in my life, enduring darkness that felt insurmountable. I even came close to ending it all. Processing that experience remains challenging, but I consider it a chapter in my past. Since then, I’ve been on a journey of reconstruction, and I want to share what I’ve built.

Experiencing a fall can often lead to a realization of how high you once were. For me, my descent helped me appreciate my current elevation. While the fall signifies loss, my present perspective allows me to see how far I’ve come. Although I wouldn’t choose to revisit the low points of last year, I can use that experience to measure my recovery and growth.

The Journey of Rebuilding

I am committed to the ongoing process of rebuilding my life, and I want to take a moment to affirm that I am doing well and experiencing happiness. With no clear plan last year, I now understand the steps that have facilitated my recovery. Reflecting from my current vantage point, I recognize that I undertook three crucial actions: I started going to the gym, accepted support from friends, and created a bucket list.

The gym provided me with endorphins and a boost of happiness. My friends offered love and support, while the bucket list instilled confidence in me. I plan to share my adventures related to the bucket list and discuss the positive influence of my friends and the gym on my life.

Building Self-Esteem Through Experiences

All three elements have contributed to gradually enhancing my self-esteem. The rebuilding of Rhys in 2023 has been a process of laying solid foundations through my gym visits, reinforced by my friends and energized by my bucket list adventures. Each trip to the gym adds another "brick" to my structure, as does the support from my friends and ticking off items from my list.

Photo by Michael Jin on Unsplash

I didn’t fully realize the impact these activities had until I began writing again this month. Perhaps this urge to write was my mind's way of processing my experiences. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that I am happy and becoming even more content. I’m engaging more with life, socializing frequently, and have even met someone special who continues to support my journey.

In the beginning, every "brick" was essential, forming the core of my rebuild. Nowadays, while I may not frequent the gym as much or rely on my friends as heavily, the strong foundations I’ve established allow for a slower pace. I remain happy, and life seems to be favoring me.

Embracing All Emotions

I understand that there will be times when I feel a sense of loss and sadness. I wouldn’t want to live without experiencing a range of emotions, including sadness. What brings me joy is the ability to feel various emotions such as happiness, anger, and fear; they are all valid reactions to life. Most importantly, these feelings are fleeting.

I look forward to continuing this journey of rebuilding. Who knows? By next year, I might achieve something truly remarkable!

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Rhys