by Chattrelle Gillyard
It’s been said that if you have to brag about the materialistic things in your life, then there probably isn’t much more to you. In today’s society, social media and advertisements have told us that if we don’t have the latest car, newest clothes, or biggest house then we aren’t “making it in life”. “Making It” can be used as a measurement of success for many. I often find myself searching for how much something costs that I just saw on Instagram or what I would need to do to obtain a better looking car, just so I can fit in with what social media and society portray as “Making It”. It’s hard not to fall into the rabbit hole of wanting new and better things.
I’m quickly brought back to reality, though, when I prepare for a day at the OAC. The guests we serve have a much different definition of “Making It.” For many, it’s as simple as being able to have a meal to eat, a warm place to sleep, or even owning more than 1 pair of shoes. We see guests on a weekly basis who either do not own a pair of shoes, are wearing shoes that are too small or too big, or wearing shoes that are barely holding together. Some have no place to keep their things and root through big garbage bags to find their documents. Others ask for extra snacks because they don’t know how they’ll get their next meal. “Making It” looks so much different for our guests, and it humbles me each time.
It reminds me that life is too short to get caught up in the materialistic things. Nobody is going to speak at my funeral about all of the nice things I had. My car, clothes, or house won’t be the topic of conversation. The small things that make up who I am, such as my compassion, kindness, and ability to make others laugh, are much more important in the long run. “Making It” should be defined as being happy with who you are, being a kinder person, being more selfless, being more compassionate, and living in your truth. “Making It” should actually be measured by what success looks like to you personally, not others.
Whether it’s owning a new car or owning a used car, YOU MADE IT. Whether it’s having several higher education degrees or not going to college so you can support your family, YOU MADE IT. Whether it’s renting an apartment or owning a home, YOU MADE IT. Whether you own 1 pair of shoes or 100 pairs of shoes, YOU MADE IT. If you are able to be in good health, have a stable support system, and have food to eat, Congratulations, YOU MADE IT!