This past month has been a major period of reflection. Since my full-time job ended in April I’ve been looking for additional freelance work, but things are slow. The more I think about it though, the more determined I am to stick with music journalism.

After going to various networking events and gaining tips from journalists in the field I’ve realized that while part of their success is a result of being at the right place at the right time, most of their success is because of their determination.

I don’t know why I have this unyielding passion for music when other friends are struggling to find their path. Obviously God has a reason for this and won’t allow me to give up despite my endless questioning. Remember that job I was devastated about not getting a few months ago? Turns out I’ll be covering a conference for them while I’m in Nashville this June for the CMA Music Festival. It may take a while to figure out why things pan out the way they do, but in the end I’m a strong believer that everything happens for a reason.

Joe Nichols’ latest single, “The Shape I’m In,” features an interview with a former US Navy SEAL who almost lost his life multiple times while in combat. A striking video, Petty Officer Marcus Luttrell states, “No matter what life throws at you, you gotta believe in yourself.” Despite his many struggles, he further explains his advice for trying times.

“Never give up and never quit. Keep getting back up and going forward and you’d be surprised at what you can do.”

I couldn’t agree more.