Ever since I was a child, I've had my share of extreme hardships.

Life-threatening allergies, sexual abuse, bullying, fat shaming, drug addiction, death of loved ones, and even almost dying on several occasions are just some of the adversities I’ve faced in the past.

Unfortunately these circumstances also brought on years of other challenges like anxiety, PTSD, and severe depression. There were days so dark that even suicide seemed like a better option. This has all been a part of my life experience so far.

Overcoming adversity is never easy.

Dealing with these painful hardships has never been easy, but somehow I found the inner strength to keep fighting to overcome these hellish nightmares of my life. Lifestyle changes and counseling certainly helped, but it was a shift in mindset that helped me remain strong.

Eventually (and weirdly) I learned to embrace these afflictions like an old friend.

Instead of playing the victim I chose to become a warrior. Rather than cry about these adversities, I started to laugh at them. I decided it’s better to take a proactive approach rather than a reactive one to my mental health.

And this has made all the difference in the world.

Two words that mean everything.

A couple years ago I had a vision. Like a flash of lightning, the words '“remain strong” exploded to life and took on an entire new meaning.

Two words to encourage me to never give up. Two words to inspire me to fight for our freedom despite the cost. Two words to empower me when the shit hits the fan. Two words to guide me in staying true to my values, beliefs, and way of life.

When you have the grit and determination to give the finger to the world regardless of the challenge, that’s the essence of remain strong.

What does it mean to you?

As I thought about developing this vision into a brand or business, I couldn’t help but think about what it could mean to other people who are encountering hardships.

If you’re struggling with your sexuality, maybe it encourages you to embrace and love yourself for who you are. If you’re battling discrimination, maybe it inspires you to stay in the fight. If you’re suffering from mental wellness issues, maybe it gives you hope to keep moving forward.

Perhaps it’s something entirely different. I don’t know.

What I do know from experience is changing your mindset about those hardships will be extremely beneficial to your overall happiness and health. It might not stop the painful afflictions you’re encountering, but it will help you overcome them.

Going forward into our battles.

As we begin to grow the Remain Strong vision, brand, publication, or whatever this thing is, our desire is it will take on a life of its own and be a catalyst for changing lives.

There are SO MANY ways these two words can be applied to challenging circumstances and help us through … health, wellness, relationships, marriage, faith, business, freedom, country, and a whole lot more!

Donetta and I hope that our work here will help you as you face your own adversities. And just remember you are NEVER alone. Together we remain strong.