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It’s always great to see how far you’ve come. Even if you can’t recognize what you’ve accomplished, someone else will. And they’ll be so thankful that they know you.

And Bored Panda has collected all the most heartwarming moments that people realized just how proud they felt of themselves or others. Ranging from small successes to huge achievements, it’s not so much about the end result itself. What matters most is seeing people work hard and put something on the line for what they believe in.

See all our picks here and vote for your favorites! Plus, read on for our two interviews with a psychotherapist and a motivational speaker on how we can learn to appreciate our pride in the best way possible.

#1

My Sweet Girl Is Cancer Free Today

My Sweet Girl Is Cancer Free Today

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Bored Panda spoke with Megan Logan, a psychotherapist and author of the #1 best-seller Self-Love Workbook for Women. The book empowers women to focus on their own emotional health and make positive changes by nurturing self-compassion. Although targeted to women, there’s great advice in it for everyone who wants to learn how to appreciate themselves better. 

That’s why we asked her to indulge us with her expert knowledge and views on why we feel pride. To start with, I asked Megan what pride means to her and she said, “Pride comes from our ego-based view of ourselves and our achievements, accomplishments, and the internal and external qualities that we believe make us worthy. Having a sense of pride allows us to appreciate our gifts and strengths and permits us to share in our relationships and the world around us. 

#2

My Mom’s An Anti-Vaxxer, But I’m 19 Now And I’ve Gotten Myself All Caught Up On My Immunizations As Of Today

My Mom’s An Anti-Vaxxer, But I’m 19 Now And I’ve Gotten Myself All Caught Up On My Immunizations As Of Today

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We also spoke to Charles Awodu, author of the Wisdom Series On Humility, Pride and Strength and President of the Word of Light International. The organization has been at the forefront of inspiring, motivating, and effectively turning the lives of people around with their message and use of faith.

Charles told Bored Panda, “Pride is an instrument for motivation and commitment towards achieving success, as well as a dangerous trap for downfall when wrongly exercised. It is a double-edged sword or emotion that can make or mar the possibility of making a difference in life.” 

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He explained further, “We have good and bad pride. Good pride drives you towards a life of excellence and reminds you that there is potential in you that needs to be discovered or maximized. Bad pride limits the extent of your impact and conditions your mind to oppress or disregard the good works of yourself and others.” 

#3

I Have Cerebral Palsy, Which Has Always Made It Difficult For Me To Run And Jog. Today, Despite My Disability, I Jogged 3km And I Couldn’t Be More Proud Of Myself

I Have Cerebral Palsy, Which Has Always Made It Difficult For Me To Run And Jog. Today, Despite My Disability, I Jogged 3km And I Couldn’t Be More Proud Of Myself

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#4

Proud Son

Proud Son

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No_idea
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh I just love this! What an amazing journey for their family.

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So, as long we can identify what ‘good’ pride is, it can be very beneficial. It’s taught to us early on in life for our development. Maybe it was your parents putting your little, scribbled drawings on the fridge or getting a sticker for finishing a fun run. Although these weren’t works of art or comparable to completing a 26-mile marathon, it’s important to receive recognition for our skills and talents.

Maybe in later life, we don’t receive as much recognition. What was once considered an achievement is now just an everyday task. You tidied your room without being asked? Great job, you want a medal or something?

#5

After 4 Years, 75 Rejections And 164 Days On Anxiety Medicine, I Published My First Fantasy Book

After 4 Years, 75 Rejections And 164 Days On Anxiety Medicine, I Published My First Fantasy Book

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#6

Proud Dad Moment

Proud Dad Moment

We’re driving down s60th st near Morgan and my two sons aged 10 and 6 asked me to pull over because they just saw a guy in a wheelchair trying to shovel his corner lot and they wanted to help.

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But it’s not to say there aren’t impressive milestones that can be completed as adults. And everyone has their own struggles and dreams—goals that they want to reach. Some want to buy their first house or make their first million. Others may just want to find peace and be happy with who they are.

Everyone defines their achievements differently, so that’s why it can be hard to appreciate your success when you compare yourself to others. And there are times when you feel proud, but something inside you forces you to push down these emotions instead. It feels like there’s no winning with it.

#7

My Brother Just Self-Published A Children’s Book So His Daughter, Who Was Born With A Limb Difference, Could See Someone Like Her As The Hero Of A Story

My Brother Just Self-Published A Children’s Book So His Daughter, Who Was Born With A Limb Difference, Could See Someone Like Her As The Hero Of A Story

I’m just so proud.

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Samantha Lomb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's important to have diverse stories so kids can see that people like them can be heroes.

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#8

My Husband Entered His First Art Competition And Won Second Place In People's Choice, I'm So Very Proud

My Husband Entered His First Art Competition And Won Second Place In People's Choice, I'm So Very Proud

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#9

Depression Hit Me Hard A Few Years Ago. I’m Finally Taking Steps To Fight It. It’s Not Perfect, But I Have My Room Back

Depression Hit Me Hard A Few Years Ago. I’m Finally Taking Steps To Fight It. It’s Not Perfect, But I Have My Room Back

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I asked our expert Megan why this is and she answered, “Some may struggle to recognize achievements because they feel like they are being arrogant or self-focused if they acknowledge it. They may also struggle with feelings of low self-worth. These feelings come from internalized societal and cultural messages, and even familial beliefs.”

It can be difficult to overcome these feelings, that’s for certain. But you can see the people here have opened themselves up to sharing their accomplishments, and we’re glad to see it. So, how can others learn to do the same? 

#11

Just Really Wanted To Show Off This Paint Job I Did Today. I'm Really Proud Of Myself On This One And I've Tried Showing A Few People And They Just Ignored The Message

Just Really Wanted To Show Off This Paint Job I Did Today. I'm Really Proud Of Myself On This One And I've Tried Showing A Few People And They Just Ignored The Message

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#12

I Am Proud Because I Just Became A US Citizen. I Just Wanted To Celebrate With My Loyal Little Friend Whom I Found At My Patio Six Months Ago. She Made Me Be A Cat Lover

I Am Proud Because I Just Became A US Citizen. I Just Wanted To Celebrate With My Loyal Little Friend Whom I Found At My Patio Six Months Ago. She Made Me Be A Cat Lover

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Samantha Lomb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cats are credited in the acknowledgements for my book. Kitty friends are a great help

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I posed this question to Megan and she said, “Increasing awareness and becoming more mindful of the negative self-talk, can allow someone to replace these beliefs with more helpful and encouraging messages. Having a positive relationship with ourselves allows us to keep going when we face challenges or roadblocks which leads to our success.”

Megan shared her feelings with us on how she looks at pride in her own life. It goes to show that it’s something everyone needs to assess about themselves. She said, “I've learned to appreciate my values aligning with my efforts and my internal qualities and talents that allow for success, rather than the actual accomplishments themselves."

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#13

The First Painting I Have Made Since I Quit Drinking 93 Days Ago. I Thought I Would Never Paint Again

The First Painting I Have Made Since I Quit Drinking 93 Days Ago. I Thought I Would Never Paint Again

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#14

My Brother Was The First To Graduate With A Master's In My Family. My Dad Couldn't Stop Crying

My Brother Was The First To Graduate With A Master's In My Family. My Dad Couldn't Stop Crying

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#15

4 Years Painting And 1 Year Perfecting This Style, Very Proud Of These 2 Pieces

4 Years Painting And 1 Year Perfecting This Style, Very Proud Of These 2 Pieces

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We asked Charles the same question and he gave us his perspective on it. Continuing on from his idea of positive pride, he said, “Many struggle to recognize their achievement as good pride because of the orientation they have about it. For instance in religious settings, whenever the word ‘pride’ is being mentioned, it is most often about the negative kind of pride. This has destroyed the potentials of so many people because it made them see their strength as bad pride—made them think less of who they are.”

#16

I Don’t Really Have Anyone To Share This With So I’ll Share It Here. My Little Ollie Graduated From Training Class Today And I Couldn’t Be More Proud Of This Very Good Boy

I Don’t Really Have Anyone To Share This With So I’ll Share It Here. My Little Ollie Graduated From Training Class Today And I Couldn’t Be More Proud Of This Very Good Boy

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#17

225,718 Tires Removed From Osborne Reef Off The Coast Of Florida. I Couldn't Be More Proud Of My Company

225,718 Tires Removed From Osborne Reef Off The Coast Of Florida. I Couldn't Be More Proud Of My Company

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#18

My Language Delayed Son Called Me Mommy For The First Time In Nearly 3.5 Years

My Language Delayed Son Called Me Mommy For The First Time In Nearly 3.5 Years

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Charles agrees with the need to assess ourselves and our relationship to pride. He continued: “It must be noted that the need to remind people about the positive sides of pride will help ignite their consciousness towards living their best life. There is nothing wrong with recognizing the role you have played in attaining any success. As long as you live, you will always have a part to play in order to achieve your desired change.” 

#19

I Created A Dads And Daughters Hair Class To Help Other Fathers Learn About Doing Hair. So Proud Of These Dads For Stepping Up And Building A Better Bond With Their Daughters

I Created A Dads And Daughters Hair Class To Help Other Fathers Learn About Doing Hair. So Proud Of These Dads For Stepping Up And Building A Better Bond With Their Daughters

We had a small class full of dads that learned basic brushing, ponytails, braids and buns. The turnout was great!

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Samantha Lomb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It would be great to see a class on Black hair care for mixed race families or people who adopt as Black haircare is very different

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#20

Seeing A Wonderful Community Of Amputees As Of Late - This Is Mine! Lost To Cancer 2 Years Ago And Still Fighting Multiple Relapses. Very Proud Of How Far I've Come

Seeing A Wonderful Community Of Amputees As Of Late - This Is Mine! Lost To Cancer 2 Years Ago And Still Fighting Multiple Relapses. Very Proud Of How Far I've Come

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Rob Woodman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The person that posted this at reddit—2 years ago—mentioned a new untreatable cancer...with probably a few months left. Hasn’t posted there in a year. Beautiful lady...25.

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#21

My Husband Painted Flowers To Cheer Us Up During Lockdown (And I Took This Proud Pic)

My Husband Painted Flowers To Cheer Us Up During Lockdown (And I Took This Proud Pic)

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Mihai Mara
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That looks incredible! I really love the colours he used and the way the flowers resemble the milky Way.

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Megan also gave her views on the other side of pride, just like Charles has mentioned. She told us her views on what it means from a psychological perspective. She said, “When distorted in meaning, pride (just like self-love) can seem negative and perhaps even arrogant. I believe that this kind of pride, rooted in insecurity and shame-based beliefs about ourselves, leads to an over-compensation and over-focus on external measures of success.”

“Having ‘too much pride’ shows up sometimes in being unable to ask for or accept help, or boasting about external achievements as the complete measurement of self-worth. Pride works best when balanced with gratitude and a focus on how our values align with our efforts.”

#22

After 7 Years Transitioning, My Husband Still Struggles With His Image. He Thinks He Doesn't Pass As A Man. But Look At That Beard. I Couldn't Be More Proud Of Him

After 7 Years Transitioning, My Husband Still Struggles With His Image. He Thinks He Doesn't Pass As A Man. But Look At That Beard. I Couldn't Be More Proud Of Him

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Samantha Lomb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think anyone would know he was trans without the explanation. But I also think transpeople who can't "pass" still deserve to be recognized as the gender they identify as and I would love to see society be less gender focused in general

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#23

A Proud Fatherly Moment

A Proud Fatherly Moment

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#24

Went From Coma To Four Months Sober From Cocaine And Opiates, Proud Of Myself

Went From Coma To Four Months Sober From Cocaine And Opiates, Proud Of Myself

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Vasha
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thanks to the doctors and nurses who kept you alive, and congrats for staying sober

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#25

I Wanted To Share My Super Talented 11-Year-Old Brother's Art. Super Proud Of Him And Love His Taste

I Wanted To Share My Super Talented 11-Year-Old Brother's Art. Super Proud Of Him And Love His Taste

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#26

My Step-Daughter's Painting. She's Super Proud Of It

My Step-Daughter's Painting. She's Super Proud Of It

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#27

I'm A Lone Dad That's Shaved My Head All My Life, I'm Learning How To Do Different Hairstyles For My Daughter With The Help Of Youtube Videos, I'm Proud Of This Plait

I'm A Lone Dad That's Shaved My Head All My Life, I'm Learning How To Do Different Hairstyles For My Daughter With The Help Of Youtube Videos, I'm Proud Of This Plait

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#28

I Just Had To Share That I Am 13 Months Off Meth. I’m Proud Of Myself. Just Had To Share It With Someone

I Just Had To Share That I Am 13 Months Off Meth. I’m Proud Of Myself. Just Had To Share It With Someone

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#29

In 2019 I Got Way Too Drunk At The Office Christmas Party And Bet My Coworker That I Would Spend 2020 Getting Fit. I Kept My Promise And Won The Bet. I Am Proud

In 2019 I Got Way Too Drunk At The Office Christmas Party And Bet My Coworker That I Would Spend 2020 Getting Fit. I Kept My Promise And Won The Bet. I Am Proud

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#30

Same Mirror, But One Year Apart. Anorexia Recovery Has Been Hard But Seeing These Pictures Makes Me Proud Of How Far I've Come

Same Mirror, But One Year Apart. Anorexia Recovery Has Been Hard But Seeing These Pictures Makes Me Proud Of How Far I've Come

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Moi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well done! It must have been hard, but you look fantastic! All the best for future x

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#31

Proud Dad After Kid Nails It At Work

Proud Dad After Kid Nails It At Work

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#32

Proud Of My Daughter. 10 Days Before Her Wedding She Became A Bone Marrow Match. Doing A Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Donation For A Leukemia Patient

Proud Of My Daughter. 10 Days Before Her Wedding She Became A Bone Marrow Match. Doing A Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Donation For A Leukemia Patient

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#33

He Guarded A Bird With Broken Wing Under My Truck For Four Days Before It Could Fly Off. Very Proud Of Him

He Guarded A Bird With Broken Wing Under My Truck For Four Days Before It Could Fly Off. Very Proud Of Him

Had to bring them both food and water because he refused to leave its side day and night.

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#34

This Is My Mom. She Spent The Past 23 Years At Home Raising 6 Kids. Her Only Personal Outlet Is Singing, And Today She Got Signed On As The Lead Singer In A Cover Band

This Is My Mom. She Spent The Past 23 Years At Home Raising 6 Kids. Her Only Personal Outlet Is Singing, And Today She Got Signed On As The Lead Singer In A Cover Band

It's never too late to reach those dreams and I'm so proud.

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#35

This Amazing Photoshoot Of My Uncle Joshua Along With All Of His Special Olympic Medals And His Very Proud Mother

This Amazing Photoshoot Of My Uncle Joshua Along With All Of His Special Olympic Medals And His Very Proud Mother

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#36

Just Finished My Latest Pencil Drawing. Exhausted And Proud To Be Done With It. "Discomposure"-2020

Just Finished My Latest Pencil Drawing. Exhausted And Proud To Be Done With It. "Discomposure"-2020

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#37

My 90-Year-Old Neighbor Hasn’t Walked Her Dog In Years So I Volunteered To Do It For Her. So Proud Of Buddy’s Weight Loss

My 90-Year-Old Neighbor Hasn’t Walked Her Dog In Years So I Volunteered To Do It For Her. So Proud Of Buddy’s Weight Loss

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#38

Today At 28 Years Old, I Was Adopted By My Step Father Of 25 Years. He Took In My Mother, My Sister, And I. I Am Proud To Honor His Family Legacy

Today At 28 Years Old, I Was Adopted By My Step Father Of 25 Years. He Took In My Mother, My Sister, And I. I Am Proud To Honor His Family Legacy

And boy did I put him through hell growing up. No matter the situation, he endured... And as I matured we grew closer and our relationship stronger.

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#39

My Friend Has Been Cleaning Up The Waters In Sweden Since April 2016

My Friend Has Been Cleaning Up The Waters In Sweden Since April 2016

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#40

This Is My Mom. She's Been Working Up To 16-20 Hours A Day At A Nursing Home In Full PPE Because Someone Broke The Rules And Introduced Covid To The Residents

This Is My Mom. She's Been Working Up To 16-20 Hours A Day At A Nursing Home In Full PPE Because Someone Broke The Rules And Introduced Covid To The Residents

She may not be the best at selfies, but I'm damn proud of her.

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SentimentAndBadJokes
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What an amazing influence of a mother. A real shame she was put into that situation because stupid people couldn't follow rules.

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#41

My Friend’s Older Daughter (6) Dressed Her Younger Daughter (1) For The Winter, And She’s Just So Proud Of Her Outfit

My Friend’s Older Daughter (6) Dressed Her Younger Daughter (1) For The Winter, And She’s Just So Proud Of Her Outfit

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#42

When I Was Born, The Doctors Told My Parents I Wasn't Supposed To Live To My First Birthday. This Is My Cardiologist And I; In A Month I Start My First Semester Of University

When I Was Born, The Doctors Told My Parents I Wasn't Supposed To Live To My First Birthday. This Is My Cardiologist And I; In A Month I Start My First Semester Of University

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#44

My Mom Has Been Protesting Nearly Every Day For Months In Her Rural Colorado Town. Proud Of Her

My Mom Has Been Protesting Nearly Every Day For Months In Her Rural Colorado Town. Proud Of Her

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#45

I Got To Marry My Best Friend And Love Yesterday. I’ve Never Been So Proud To Call Her My Wife. Plus, I Think We Make A Pretty Cute Family

I Got To Marry My Best Friend And Love Yesterday. I’ve Never Been So Proud To Call Her My Wife. Plus, I Think We Make A Pretty Cute Family

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#46

My Dad, Earning His Bachelors Degree, At 62 Years Young. He Is So Happy And I Am So Proud

My Dad, Earning His Bachelors Degree, At 62 Years Young. He Is So Happy And I Am So Proud

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#47

Being Proud Of Their Accomplishments And Embarrassing Them All With The Same Outfit

Being Proud Of Their Accomplishments And Embarrassing Them All With The Same Outfit

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Sue Lynn Chan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If i were her, i would say thank you before burying her in the forest.......

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#48

Proud Moment For Me: My Movie Comes Out In Theaters Today. I Spent Every Day Since I Was 12 Waiting For Today

Proud Moment For Me: My Movie Comes Out In Theaters Today. I Spent Every Day Since I Was 12 Waiting For Today

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#49

My Daughter Earning Her Medal For 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. So Proud Of Her. Sadly, And Awesomely, She's Been Through More Books In Her Life Than I Have

My Daughter Earning Her Medal For 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. So Proud Of Her. Sadly, And Awesomely, She's Been Through More Books In Her Life Than I Have

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#50

My Husband Reached 10,000 Days Of Sobriety, So We Threw Him A Surprise Party! He’s Amazing For So Many Reasons But Mostly For His Strength

My Husband Reached 10,000 Days Of Sobriety, So We Threw Him A Surprise Party! He’s Amazing For So Many Reasons But Mostly For His Strength

When things would get particularly tough, he would say, “I’m going to be so proud of all those days I didn’t drink…” 

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Chris Hardtke
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really underlines the struggle. You might think, “nearly 28 years, it’s not an issue anymore”, but it can still be a challenge every day.

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Note: this post originally had 130 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.