There’s so many mornings, she stands in the shower, just letting the hot water wash over her.
Head down, she’s mustering up the strength for her day, and deep down, she’s vaguely hoping the water will wash away some of her stress.
She tries not to cry as she wipes away the beginnings of tears from her eyes.
This is what they don’t see- the world never knows about her..
That she has these days that take everything she has just to show up..
Because everyone sees the smile on her face and positive attitude and just assumes that she is an unbreakable rock- a strong and resolute woman.
Truth is, though, she breaks more often than she doesn’t- she just doesn’t show it to the people around her.
They need her- to be strong, to be smiling, to keep going no matter what.
That takes a toll on her some days, and she may cry for a few minutes when she gets in the car or sits there, just staring and searching for a bit more strength to push ahead.
That’s the amazing beauty of a strong woman- steadfast and resilient, she always seems to find a way to do everything for everyone without skipping a beat.
She lies in bed so many nights, utterly spent from her day and praying that she finds a way to keep going when her soul is weary.
She doesn’t ask for help, because she learned long ago to depend only on herself and has fought her way through so many fires that she became the fire herself.
Not because she wanted to be strong.
Not because she chose to be a fighter.
Her life never gave her any other choice..
So now, she does what she has to..sometimes with a warrior spirit conquering the world, and other times, squeezing out every bit of energy to pull her through the day.
But if you ever met her, you’d just know what an amazing person she is..
Even when she appears on the edge of tears, she still manages a smile and says “I’m okay.”
She’s not afraid to speak her mind or tell someone what she thinks, but she’s prepared to do what it takes to be strong..
Set boundaries, stand up for herself or even correct someone’s behavior if it needs it..
She knows sometimes it’s okay not to be okay, and she takes that time if she can..
Regardless, she presses on to get whatever needs to be done..her life waits for no one.
That’s what she knows she can count on.
Respect her for the beautiful creature she is.
Appreciate her for the courage she shows every day.
Love her for her ability to break so very often and then keep going.
She’s not perfect, she’s not flawless and she’ll never be asking for help.
Beneath the tough exterior is a heart of gold and deep soul, and she loves hard when she does.
So, as she walks by with a smile on her face, just know that you’ve seen one of the most remarkable people that you’ll ever see:
A strong woman.
|ravenwolf