Strength

Written by: Collette Cottingham; Writer in Residence

 

Who am I?

We all have a “thing” something that comes natural to us. My “thing” has been kindness. It is who I am, yet when I pondered this “thing” today “strength” appeared.

As I replay the compliments I have received lately, kindness isn’t one of them…strength is.

I am not talking about a physical strength. This is a mental strength or mental anguish as I felt at the time. I didn’t want to be there, but I didn’t have a choice.

All aspects of my life were played out in the public sphere…to my great horror.

I did the best I could, managing the storm, some days were better than others. Today I am happy I survived and I am proud of myself for not playing into the drama.

I get complements everyday about how strong I am. I usually shrug them off…why?

I am strong. I fought a mental battle and came out a better person. I want my children to live their lives with me as an example. You can overcome, forgive and be a better person.

There are some rough, hazardous roads in life, you have the strength inside you to overcome anything. You will be fine and have a deep appreciation for life.

I can be the heroine of my own story. I can describe myself the way I do my favorite novel.