sophrosyne - (n.) a healthy state of mind, characterized by self control, moderation, and a deep awareness of one's true self, and resulting in true happiness

it has taken me an extremely long time to become comfortable with who i am as a person as well as discovering who that person was. i've struggled with an idea of myself, questioning my actions and my thoughts to fully grasp why i do or why i think the way i do. i've struggled with my own insecurities and confidence as well as fully losing myself, only to rediscover my very own path. keeping my mind open and always being hungry for growth has shaped me to become who i am today, along with a little help and support from the people in my life. through the process of losing myself, i have gained more knowledge of my passions, my reasons, what i deserve and much more. the journey never stops, however, as i try to expand my knowledge and push myself to grow further i cannot risk losing this peace i have created with myself. although i do still question and struggle with parts of myself, i have understood that this is a learning process that one must go through to achieve true happiness. i am growing and when i think that i've stopped and learned it all, then that is when i have failed. never stop questioning and learning - through a true understanding and comfort with yourself, can you really achieve serenity.