Daily Gratitude: Whenever you feel your courage slipping or the task ahead calls for more than the usual courage you use getting through your day, find an ally. But do it intentionally. Don’t just pick whoever is around to lean on. Make a considered choice. The casual acquaintance is not necessarily the correct person to pick to shore up your courage. You don’t want to have to get to know that person while you’re facing something daunting. So pick someone you know and trust…and who’s willing to assist. Talk with that person and tell them what’s up and why you need their support at this moment. Ask them if they feel they can help. Then ask them what you can do for them. Remember that all worthwhile interactions are two way streets. Never be too vain or egotistical to ask for someone to “have your back”. The power of another by your side will dramatically increase your sense that you can conquer what’s ahead. I don’t know if I could still finish Vol State without Team Terrie but with all of you, I have a much better chance of enduring all that’s ahead of me in the next two weeks. Thank you for being along with me.