Life often throws challenges our way and many of us believe that we must face these challenges with a "brave face," suppressing our emotions to avoid burdening others. This belief is deeply entrenched in our society, yet it is one that desperately needs to change. Ben and Mike from Mates on a Mission are the epitome of this change and are challenging the stigma around mental health. 

Ben lost his sight overnight at the age of 16, and Mike, while on a football trip at 18, woke up months later in a hospital bed to discover both his legs had been amputated. Hearing their stories and their unique perspectives on life profoundly impacted many students and teachers at GHS. They demonstrated that while life presents us with challenges, how we choose to respond to them is the only aspect within our control. 

Through numerous interactive activities, they taught us valuable lessons about life and the power of our choices. One particularly memorable activity was the "sentence game," where a group of students had to form a coherent sentence. The activity illustrated how the words we choose, much like the choices we make in life can significantly impact the outcome and affect others. For instance, adding unexpected words like "Harley" and “Reid” into the middle of a sentence could change its meaning entirely. Similarly, in life our choices have the power to shape not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us.

Ben and Mike emphasised that while it is easy to dwell on the negatives and the emotions they bring, it is crucial to accept these feelings and decide how we want to move forward. Ignoring or suppressing negative emotions can lead to them bottling up until they overflow, which is why it is essential not to neglect them. Instead, we should share our feelings with others and lean on our support systems. We should never feel afraid or embarrassed to reach out for help.

Ultimately, the profound wisdom we gained from Ben and Mike is that the only true control we have in life is over ourselves and our responses to our life challenges. Recognising that vulnerability is not a weakness but a vital step toward healing and growth is crucial. By adopting this perspective, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience, strengthened by the support of those we trust. Real toughness isn’t about putting up a tough front, it’s about having the courage to speak up. 

Asia Brand