Inspired by conversations in acting today.

A lot of people define themselves by the tragedies in their past, the ones they've overcome and the ones they're still recovering from. For example, if you ask someone the moments in their life that defined who they were, they might say the death of a parent, a fight with an illness, or a bullying incident. There's nothing wrong with that; on the contrary, overcoming struggle is admirable and incredible, and those who do are stronger because of it.

But why don't we define ourselves by moments of joy?

It's an odd concept to think about. Of course, there are exceptions, but for the most part, tragedy defines our life more than celebration.

So I want you to think of some moments of joy that helped define who you are.

For example, I went to an amusement park with my friends once, and I was TERRIFIED of rollercoasters. They (kindly) peer pressured me into riding every single big ride in the park and now I'm a complete rollercoaster junkie. That day is also filed under the "happiest days of my life" folder of my brain.

I will never forget the first time I realized I could sing. My friends were practicing a dance and they asked me to sing the song so they could practice timing. I obliged. I remember not comprehending the voice that came out of my mouth. Was that me? And then they were freaking out and complimenting my voice, and I was just...astonished. It was like discovering a super power.

Now I sing three days a week and more on my free time.

In second grade, I won second place in a Young Author's Writing contest. The picture of small me opening the letter of congratulations is PRICELESS. I had never won ANYTHING before (other than Most Responsible Kid in kindergarten). I wrote so many stories after that, I filled hundreds of notebooks.

Now I've written almost four full novels, and one of them has 11,000 views (!!!)

What are some joyful moments in your life that helped shape you? You don't have to post them, but think about it. :-)

Much love,
Margot