I like this.. it’s simple but full of determination... you can feel the fight to keep living fully, even with fear, pain, and struggles in the way..... it’s short, but it leaves a strong, hopeful feeling..
I hope that you're living you're life to the fullest!
I think that the work "in-spite" rather than "despite" is a great choice because it speaks to my rebel heart. I want to live BECAUSE I have a fear of dying (or maybe of not living). I want to laugh BECAUSE I have cried so many times. I want to run BECAUSE I have an ache in my lungs and it makes me feel alive. It's like giving the middle finger to all of our limitations. I think if you had used "despite" it would honor the victim mentality, and you've given the reader power here with your choice of words.
A piece that highlights a theme so important to all of us who are counted amongst the fighters.. That "in spite of" the shackles and trials that try to bind us... that try to bring us down..the spirit of the dreamer- and his longing will not be drowned. Wonderful write.
...Misty