I don’t know about you, but I struggle with the tension of what I ought to be with what I am. People applaud me for reaching the ideal and dismiss me as being lazy if I fall short. I believe in having dreams to strive for, but this constant pursuit of the ideal feels like I am a salmon swimming up stream. It is exhausting and I am not sure what in the long run it really accomplishes. I am beginning to accept myself as myself, no body else. I still believe in some ideals like social justice for all, opportunity for all, and a sustainable environment. I believe in the work ethic and being the best version of me that I can be, but I am learning to let go of the ideal.