“A year ago, you did not know today. You did not know how you’d make it here. But you made it here…”
These simple yet profound words from artist and writer Morgan Harper Nichols resonate deeply. They capture a universal human experience: navigating the vast, often intimidating, uncertainty of life. The quote serves as a powerful reminder of our own resilience. It encourages us to pause and acknowledge the journey we have traveled. Indeed, looking back reveals the strength we never knew we had.
This simple reflection validates our struggles and celebrates our survival. It’s a quiet anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost, uncertain, or overwhelmed by the path ahead. Let’s explore the layers of this meaningful statement.
The Unpredictability of a Year
Think back to this exact time last year. Can you honestly say you predicted your current circumstances? You likely had plans, goals, and expectations. However, life rarely follows a script. The first line, “A year ago, you did not know today,” highlights this fundamental truth. It speaks to the unexpected twists, the unforeseen challenges, and the surprising joys that shape our lives.
We often spend so much time trying to control the future. We create five-year plans and detailed roadmaps. Yet, circumstances can change in an instant. This quote gently asks us to release the need for absolute certainty. Furthermore, it suggests that not knowing is a natural part of the human condition. Embracing this uncertainty is the first step toward appreciating the journey itself, rather than just focusing on the destination.
Navigating Through the Doubt
The next line, “You did not know how you’d make it here,” delves into the heart of our anxieties. This part of the quote acknowledges the moments of doubt and fear. It remembers the nights you wondered if you had the strength to continue. It recalls the problems that seemed insurmountable at the time. Everyone faces periods where the path forward is completely obscured.
During these times, we operate on faith, instinct, and sheer will. We take one small step at a time, often without a clear view of the end goal. Consequently, we build resilience with each challenge we overcome. This process is rarely glamorous. It is a quiet, internal battle fought day after day. The quote validates this struggle. It honors the courage it takes to simply keep going when you do not have all the answers. It reminds you that you found a way through, even when a way seemed impossible.
The Power of Arrival
Finally, the quote concludes with a triumphant, simple statement: “But you made it here.” This is the destination, the arrival point of a year’s journey. It is a powerful declaration of survival and perseverance. You navigated the fog. You overcame the obstacles. You are here now, standing in a place you once could not imagine.
This final phrase encourages a moment of profound self-recognition. It is crucial to acknowledge your own strength and tenacity. Modern society often pushes us to immediately look for the next challenge without celebrating our current victories. However, pausing to honor how far you have come is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Researchers have found that reflecting on past successes can significantly boost confidence and self-efficacy. . Source
Looking Forward with Renewed Strength
This quote from Morgan Harper Nichols is more than just a reflection on the past. It is a tool for the future. By understanding and appreciating your past resilience, you build a foundation of confidence for whatever comes next. The future remains just as unknown as it was a year ago. New challenges will undoubtedly arise.
Nevertheless, you now have concrete proof of your ability to endure. You have a track record of making it through uncertain times. When you face future doubts, you can look back and remember this truth. You have done it before, and therefore, you can do it again. This perspective transforms anxiety about the future into a quiet confidence in your own capabilities. So take a moment today. Acknowledge your journey, celebrate your arrival, and step into tomorrow with the strength you’ve already proven you have.