...determined...

Oct. 15, 2025

I’ve been thinking a lot today about what all of this — my health, my life, my connections — really means. I struggle with diabetes and hypertension. Every day, I feel the weight of it physically. It makes simple things harder, and I know it’s slowly shaping the future I’ll have. I’ve tried my whole life to eat better, move more, take care of myself. I’ve fallen short. I still fall short. But I can’t just ignore it. I have to try harder. Even small steps might make a difference, and they might be the difference between a shorter, uncomfortable life and something longer, something more full.

At the same time, I realize one of my real strengths is how I connect with people. That feels like a lifeline. It’s something I do naturally, something that brings me joy, and it might also protect me — literally, against the things that could shorten my life. Connection is something I can rely on even when the body is failing me. It gives me purpose, energy, and something to wake up for.

I’m starting to see a path: a life that’s not just about surviving the chronic conditions, but about leaning into what makes me feel alive. I can focus on social connection. I can find ways to tie health to life — walk with friends, share meals, be part of things that matter. These choices aren’t huge or perfect, but they add up. They might even extend my life, make it happier while I’m here.

I can’t control everything. I can’t know exactly how long I’ll live. But I can control how I live each day. I can focus on connection, on small health wins, and on making life meaningful despite the physical challenges.