LETTERS TO MY PRESENT SELF: PART 5.

Roberta•Namakula
2 min readDec 24, 2023

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More than I would care to admit, this year has been my hardest one yet. Navigating the tumultuous waters of medical school, I felt as if I were being torn apart – physically, mentally, and emotionally. The rigorous demands seemed insurmountable, testing my limits in ways I never imagined.

In the midst of this storm, I discovered reservoirs of perseverance and courage within myself that I never knew existed. The relentless pursuit of my medical degree became a crucible, forging qualities that will undoubtedly shape my future as a healer. It was a journey of self-discovery, where I learned to draw strength from the depths of my being.

Interestingly, as medical school pushed me to the brink, I found solace in my faith. Closer to God than ever before, I realized that even in the darkest moments, there is a divine light guiding us. This spiritual connection became my anchor, providing a sense of purpose beyond the rigorous academic challenges.

The challenges of this year extended beyond the classroom. Old friendships faltered, and distance claimed some of my dearest companions. Yet, amid the losses, I forged new connections that breathed fresh air into my life. The friends who moved away became catalysts for growth, teaching me the importance of cherishing moments and fostering bonds with those who remain.

God played a crucial role in rebuilding the fragments of my life. It was as if each trial and tribulation was a step in a divine blueprint, reconstructing a stronger, more resilient version of myself. The pain and the losses were not in vain; they were the raw materials for a reconstruction project masterminded by a higher power.

As the year draws to a close, I reflect not only on the challenges but also on the incredible people who entered my life. The new friendships, built on shared experiences and mutual support, have been a source of immeasurable strength. These connections are a testament to the transformative power of resilience, courage, and faith.

Despite the hardships, there is an undeniable sense of hope for the future. The trials of this year were not meant to break me; they were stepping stones towards a better version of myself. As we approach 2024, let us carry this hope forward. Let us face the uncertainties with the same resilience that carried us through the darkest days of this year.

In retrospect, I am grateful for the struggles that defined this chapter of my life. They were the crucible that shaped my character, the chisel that sculpted my resilience, and the compass that guided me closer to God. May the lessons of this challenging year serve as beacons of hope for all, pointing towards a brighter, more promising future.

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