Better to be Strong

"Better to be strong than pretty and useless."

Lilith Saintcrow

Just because your heart is open does not mean you will not be hurt.

Just because you stand in the light does not mean darkness will not come.

What is right for you does not make it right for all.

What is correct in one situation may be inappropriate in an other.

Your laughter may be exhilarating, yet sound like criticism to someone else's ear.

Your weeping may be unbearable without shedding a tear.

Just because you love fully does not mean you will be loved in return.

Just because you are loved does not mean you will not be alone.

The challenge to leave the heart open, vulnerable to repeated rejection or pain can be devastating.  One must move through relationships with courage, aware the outcome can veer off into any direction.  To live with love in our heart for others, does not mean we will escape the darkness of pain or disillusion.   There is no guarantee we will not experience isolation even within relationship.

The ability to be flexible, to transition without rigid expectation will assist in navigating through the inconsistencies of life.  What once was an endearment may now sound like an insult.  Laughter may seem inappropriate, but it may be the only way we know to release pent up anguish.

My goal has never been to be pretty nor has it been to be useless.  Most definitely, I do not feel pretty useless as I know now how to respond with grace and thanksgiving.  Like everyone, my life has been filled with challenges, but discovering the lesson within creates the development of the soul.  Being strong allows us to weep without tears, yet sob with joy.