Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. –Helen Keller
Can I be successful in grieving? Is there a way out of this? For someone who is used to succeeding, why do so many days feel like they end in failure? What does success in loss look like? What do I look like?
I look tired. Many people continue to emphasize my exhausted appearance. Fortunately, I don’t equate that with defeat. I fully expect “year one” to be matched with fatigue. I am scattered. Many people grant me extra grace when my mind doesn’t keep up with life. Luckily, foggy thoughts seem to be allowed considering the circumstances. I am in a state of isolation. Many try to comfort, yet few can relate. This however, is more of a disappointment than a conquest. I feel separate, but not absent from life. This tells me I may be disheartened, but I have not been conquered.
Maybe success takes new shape. Maybe the truer sense of victory comes from perseverance, determination, courage. I have always been inspired by Helen Keller. Tonight, rather than dwelling on a success being achieved, I think I need to concentrate on a soul being strengthened.
