2319: Refuel

Hey Friends,

"Surprise"

First, I'd like to express my gratitude to my classmates from MEDPREP Class of '25 for throwing a surprise birthday lunch. Being far from home, I did not know what to expect, and I was perfectly fine with that sense of uncertainty as it left room for numerous possibilities. The feeling of being celebrated is something we should all experience, and I sincerely hope that we can continue this tradition of celebrating each other on our special days. It's crucial to embrace those who genuinely want to be there for you, as that isn't always the case.

"Breaks"

Isn't it funny how emotions can take us on a rollercoaster ride? This week, as I woke up on my birthday, my veins were flowing with dopamine, and I couldn't spot a single negative thought anywhere. Birthdays often bring this universal feeling of joy and anticipation. However, as the day progressed and I returned to my home for the day, doubt, disbelief, and a slew of irrational negative thoughts started creeping in. I felt guilty for celebrating my birthday because it meant I had to "fall behind" on my studies. It's funny how my 18-year-old self would be proud that I'm upset about not studying. But in all seriousness, a birthday only comes around once a year, and it's a fleeting moment. If we don't appreciate and celebrate it on that day or the following few days, the next opportunity won't arrive until the following year.

I recently had some profound conversations with my sister and a very close friend. Talking to them felt like the weight of the world was lifted from my shoulders. Both of them deserve books written about the inspiration they provided. My sister, in her no-nonsense way, gave me a reality check. She said, "Look how far you've come," as if she had removed a blindfold from my eyes. It was a reminder of how easy it is to fall into perceptual blindness, not appreciating our own progress.

My "brudda," as I informally refer to him, offered another perspective. He asked, "How can you expect to complete your journey without refueling?" It was yet another reality check. Another reality check. Whether you're going five miles, a hundred miles, or crossing the entire country, you have to stop and refuel to reach your destination. This applies directly to life and our well-being. So, this weekend, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on how far you've come in all aspects of life and make sure your gaslight isn't on empty.

Peace,

Zechariah Davis

Song of the week:

• "Candy Rain" - Soul For Real

Quote of the week:

• Look how far you have come - Yesenia Davis

Movie Clips I've been listening to lately

#1. I told yall - Petey Pablo