Life is full of obstacles. Some are small, like a bad grade on a test or a disagreement with a friend. Others feel insurmountable, like the weight of moving to a new place, grappling with personal struggles, or feeling out of place in an unfamiliar world. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that growth doesn’t stop at the obstacle—it begins beyond it.
When I first moved from Brazil to Florida, everything felt overwhelming. The language barrier made every conversation a challenge, and I constantly felt like I was playing catch-up. I didn’t just have to learn a new language—I had to adapt to an entirely new culture, make friends, and navigate a school system that was completely different from what I knew. To make things harder, I was already struggling with undiagnosed ADHD, which left me feeling distracted and out of step with my peers.
Instead of letting these challenges hold me back, I decided to push forward. I enrolled in the hardest program my middle school offered, despite knowing it would require extra effort. It wasn’t easy—I spent late nights translating assignments, asking for help, and trying to stay focused when my mind felt like it was going in a hundred directions. But I refused to give up. By the end of the year, I not only made it to the honor roll but also proved to myself that I could succeed in the face of adversity.
Looking back, I see how that experience shaped me. It wasn’t just about grades or accomplishments—it was about resilience. It taught me that I’m capable of more than I often give myself credit for. It also taught me the importance of perseverance, especially when the odds feel stacked against you.
Here’s what I’ve come to believe: obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re stepping stones. They force you to pause, reassess, and find a way forward. They don’t define you; your response to them does. Beyond every obstacle lies a lesson, a new perspective, and a stronger version of yourself.
So when you face your next challenge, remember this: It’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. But don’t stop there. Keep going. The person you become on the other side is worth it. Beyond the obstacle is where growth begins. So if you’re looking for a sign, this it it: take that challenging step in your life. You will never get to see the view if you don’t go through the hike.
Thrive and write 