I started this journey wanting to help people with no control over their circumstances. It’s been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.
A few days ago, someone asked me: “Who do you think you are? Your walk isn’t going to change anything.” I didn’t even know them. Their words broke something in me. I’ve had moments where I think about what they said and just cry. I’m already drowning in doubt and insecurity, and those words almost made me quit. I feel so small.
But I’ve decided to at least try.
When I think about the people I’ve met, those without clean water or basic sanitation, who fight every day just to survive, I remember why I started. Their faces, their hope, their gratitude are what keep me going.
Maybe my impact will be small. Maybe that person is right. But I’d rather try and fail than never try at all. Every step I take might contribute to something better, and that possibility has to be enough.
To anyone else who’s been told their efforts don’t matter: I know how much it hurts, especially when you’re already questioning yourself. Those words can devastate you. But you’re doing something, and that counts.
Don’t let someone else’s cruelty become your reason to stop. You might feel small (I do right now), but showing up anyway takes more courage than they’ll ever understand.
Keep going. Even when you’re not sure it’s worth it. Even when their words keep replaying in your head. Especially then.