The Path of Life

Wisdom does not come easy with the simple passage of time.

It came from rising up and claiming what was mine.

Taking the road less traveled, and not turning back when it got rough.

Enduring the pain, playing the masochist, and never saying enough is enough.

Lessons were learned through grave mistakes I will never make again.

And through cherished memories with those I will forever call my friend.

They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and that is mostly true.

To survive you must cling to what you hold dear to help pull you through.

Then one day you'll look in the mirror, not recognizing the person staring back.

The old you gone, replaced by the being who withstood and thrived after each attack.