The first quote by Churchill, “If you’re going through hell, keep going,” is one of my favorites. I love it because it applies so well to my life. It gives me inspiration and strength to get through want I have to face. Whether that is a level drop, being in a program, or coping with depression, this quote has helped me through, especially since I have been in the group home. It makes my consequences seem less eternal, and my suffering less complete. I first read this quote while playing Call of Duty 2. When you are killed in the game the screen goes black and a quote pops up, this was one of the better ones.

The second quote reminds me of a story my mom told me about her junior high experience. Somebody called her a bitch and she turned and, with a smile, said “gee, I really am a bitch, thank you!” and walked off leaving the kid stunned. I think the Othello quote “The robb’d that smiles steals something from the thief” really applies to life.

Finally the Emerson quote “we acquired the strength we have overcome” reminds me of the saying “whatever doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.” We have to go through trials to perfect ourselves “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things” so that we can get stronger. It’s like in therapy when one gets close to a relapse. The best way to get out of that situation is to learn from it and grow.

Nick B.