The first step

I see you.

The one who smiles, but hides tremendous pain beneath the clever facade.  You may have struggled to get out of bed today... Maybe you didn't get out of bed. "It's too much work," you thought to yourself as you buried yourself beneath the covers.

You are not alone in this struggle. Every human will face times of pain, moments of fear and seasons of emotional ups and downs. That's a normal part of life.  What isn't okay is when we spiral into preoccupation with worry, fear and distress.  When we push life away instead of pushing into life.

I'm not pretending it's easy. I won't sugarcoat how hard your journey will be. 
Would you take the first step today?
If you're tempted to hide from life, don't.

If it helps, drop the smile, let someone look deep into your fear-filled eyes and connect to the place inside of you that writhes in pain.  Say the words you are terrified to say.  You think you're being brave by not asking for help, but you are only delaying the inevitable. You will continue to be crushed by emotions you don't fully understand. Take a chance.  Push back the covers and step into the day, regardless of the lie that says "you can't."

Every next step is a milestone. Each little victory will turn into something greater as you keep moving.  As you embrace the awkward feeling of vulnerability, you will emerge stronger. 
I know from experience.

Take the first step today... with or without a smile.