The Strength It Takes

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For my friends, The Ilardos, whose light beats back the shadows...

To bear the cross

Of mortal fears;

To know a wish

Cannot change Will;

To show gratitude

Despite the tears;

To remain in motion

When all else is still.

To plow forward

Through perilous doubt;

To forge solid steel

Of a broken heart;

To dive straight in

When instinct cries, “Out!”

To live holy, wholly,

When life tears you apart.

To give of yourself

When nothing’s left to give -

To sense when that

Is all that is needed;

To beat back Death

In order to live;

To grow in defeat

And not be defeated.

To play your cards,

Even those poorly dealt;

Not lamenting losses,

but counting your blessings;

With the love of your God

And for each other heartfelt;

Your strength inspires…

Thanks for the lessons.

© Jeff Wilson, 2012