Stronger...

I got this amazing card the other day from a good friend of mine who has been there for me through most everything these last few years and I thought that many of you would like it - so here's to Hallmark and to the amazing Linda Barnes who came up with these words...

They say 
what doesn't kill you
makes you stronger.
Well, what if 
you didn't sign up
for extra-strength training?
What if you'd rather 
catch a few breaks
once in awhile?
Is that so much to ask?
At some point, you'd think
you'd be entitled
to a free pass or two:
Skip this challenge.
Avoid that crisis.
Delete those problems.
It's not that you're not strong
or that you don't have what it takes 
to get through this.
You are, you do, and you will.
But you've built enough character
already, and it's time 
for things to lighten up a little!
I know it is not really my call,
but if I were in charge
of life's wheel of fortune,
you'd get a free spin.
And I'd be right there,
cheering you on!


And if I were in charge, I would give each and EVERYONE of you a free spin too.  You all deserve it!

With a special dedication to Alysia at Try Defying Gravity.

Also sending a big THANK YOU to everyone who has not just commented here and on Facebook with messages of support, but also for each of you who emailed me personally with your stories of understanding, I truly appreciate it all. 

H

9 comments:

Jennifer said...

I got a card for a friend after a completely terrible thing happened to her. It said something like this...
"One day you will look back on all this with the wisdom that distance and time can bring... (open card)and you will say, 'Wow. That really sucked" '
Truer words never spoken! Thinking of you!

Natalia said...

Thank you for sharing! I think everyone needs to hear something like this, especially a special-needs parent. It's kinda been one of those YEARS for everyone! lol Again, thank you!

AutismWonderland said...

I love this post! I can't tell you how often I heard those words - after my son's diagnosis, after a miscarriage. And while I appreciate the thought: WHY DOES THIS DUDE KEEP TESTING ME?

I wish there was a free pass for certain things, but as much as this saying annoys me, I understand it.

I don't know you or Alysia personally but (like I commented on Try Defying Gravity) I know what your feeling. So keep on keeping on.

Anonymous said...

Well. Now I've cried twice at your words. Thank you.

Life changes. Sometimes for good. Sometimes not. And with our friends we'll get through it.

Glad that you're my friend.

Alysia

trainingweelz said...

right there along with you... thank you for sharing these beautiful words with perfect timing on this double-meltdown-night! xo

Fields said...

That is a good friend! What wonderful words, and so true.

Heather said...

Thank you for sharing this. So many times I wished I could get off this Merry-go-round of life and catch a little break. I know in my heart that there is a reason for everything. It doesn't make this life any easier.

Smilen Champ said...

Hi
My name is Jenna and I came across your site. I was born with a rare life threatening disease, and have 12 other diagnosis. Two of them are suspected autism and bipolar. I love it when people sign my guestbook. www.miraclechamp.webs.com

Patty O. said...

This sums up my feeling exactly! Exactly. Thanks for sharing, Hartley.