The Birth of Strength

So many people have said to me,

“You’re the strongest person I know.”

They mean this in the nicest, most supportive way,

But it always makes me a little bit sad.

Being strong isn’t something I chose to be.

It’s not a goal I set and reached.

It’s not something to be celebrated.

It’s something I HAD to be.

I was knocked to the ground and kicked in the teeth.

I wanted to stop the ride so I could get off!

But life kept going, dragging me along behind it

Until, tired of the road rash, I got up and started walking again.

My brave face has come out of my fear.

My resilience has come out of my imbalance.

My courage has come out of my cowardice.

My strength has come out of my weakness.

I spent a lot of time with music

And two of my favorites, Mr. Marley and Mr. Lennon.

Bob Marley said “You never know how strong you are

Until being strong is your only choice.”

I didn’t choose to be strong. I was made to be strong.

I was forced to be strong. And I am now stronger than ever before.

John Lennon said, “Everything will be ok in the end. If it’s not ok, it’s not the end.” My story isn't done yet.

And my personal mantra for this journey, “Tomorrow may rain, so I’ll follow the sun!”