Strange that a mere word is the means by which immensely complicated concepts are conveyed. Freedom. Justice. Equality.
Progress.
Defining such an idea is perhaps futile. Enormous words as such are beautiful in that their definitions are unique to the individual. It seems that the knowledge of such words is written in the soul—not willing to be confined by the restrictions of language. Alas, I will do my best to convey what is etched in my mind.
Progress is choosing to be vulnerable and uncomfortable, as overcoming the mind is the true obstacle between us and whatever lies ahead.
Although progress is often defined as “growth” and “forward movement,” these explanations do not truly encompass the significance behind the word. Growth and forward movements are, rather, results of progress.
Less than a year ago I was counting down the last days of summer. Three months without seeing my boyfriend was far too long and I realized that long distance was not something I ever wanted to attempt. Two weeks before school started I flew across the country to have a music lesson. To condense a long story I decided to transfer for the Spring semester. My new professor told me it would be unwise to return to school for the Fall term as the politics of the situation would inevitably become unmanageable.
Instead of being excited, I was devastated. Three long months of waiting to see my boyfriend, someone I loved dearly. Two weeks away. And every hope seemed to be shattered. I knew that long distance was not for me so we sadly parted ways. It was one of those instances when the mind and the heart say “No” and yet you have to overcome yourself and say “Yes.”
I had to jump. The opportunity would never present itself again. I was horrified and afraid. But I had to jump. Choosing to be vulnerable, choosing to place myself in a foreign uncomfortable situation—despite my internal protests—was progress.
As Spring semester draws to a close I still don’t feel that I’ve hit the ground. I’m falling. But I’ve grown much through the experience (a result of progress). Had I not transferred I would never have known how much I loved my ex. Had I not transferred I might never have reached my highest musical capabilities.
Progress does not always bring the expected results. It can be expected, however, that without vulnerability there will be no progress.
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