Alice Cove-Smith: Don't give in

Glee star Darren Criss is one of Alice Cove-Smith's heroes.

Persistence is definitely my keyword for 2015. Persistence is something every person on planet Earth should master, because you never know where it may take you.

Case in point: Last year, I got a letter from one of my biggest heroes, Darren Criss, of Glee fame.

I look up to Darren because he inspires me every day to keep on chuffing along. He helped me through an incredibly rough time in the hospital, and I wanted to say "Thank You".

So I started somewhat of a mission to reach out and thank him. I went everywhere, through Starship, Make A Wish and several charities.

Every time, I would reach a dead end and groan in frustration.

I was too intimidated to go to management, as believe it or not, shyness can grip me like a steel hand and not let go.

However, I kept trying until I found a small US company, whose aim was to help others. We corresponded for a couple of weeks, and then, in mid April, I received a package.

Inside was a letter from Darren.

Well, I was pleased as punch. I cried a river of joy that day.

The amazing and highly personal note, filled with warmth and kindness, is framed and my most valuable possession.

The reason I tell you this is because, much like motivation, persistence can serve you in all the best ways.

While my main goal still is to meet Darren and thank him in person, I can rest easy knowing I tried and it paid off.

Looking ahead, know that trying all you can is sometimes all you need.