And for some reason the word strength and what that word means kept coming to mind.
Having strength and being strong is much more than being able to lift heavy things with ease.
Strength is about being able to handle life's burdens while not letting those burdens become an anchor around your neck, heart and spirit.
In 2011 I learned that that no matter what happens in life, I am capable of forging ahead and being strong - even during those times in August and September (and now) when I felt and feel like "the girl with the weight of the word in her hands. "
I was reminded daily that advocating for others allowed me to become stronger than I originally thought and that by developing my diabetes voice for others, it helped (and continues to do so every day) me develop my own voice - Diabetes and otherwise.
2011 reinforced the fact that little things aren't worth arguing about with people that you love because life is too short when it comes to getting the last word over things that don't matter.
This year reminded me that there is strength in numbers and that little ripples make big waves.
And finally, I learned that you can suffer a loss that weighs so heavily on your heart that you don't know how you're physically and mentally going to get through it. But I learned that you do, because you have the help and support of wonderful friends and the memory of an amazing mother who I do my absolute best to honor every day.
I owe both the Diabetes On-line Community and my mother a big THANK YOU for giving me that strength - So THANKS loved ones, I wouldn't have my strength without you!
Strength in massive doses is what I'm taking with me into 2012 and I'm incredibly grateful to have it.
And when I think my strength reserve is low, I'll remind myself of the lessons 2011 taught to me by the people I love.
What lesson(s) learned in 2011 are you taking with you into 2012?
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5 comments:
Great post, K2. You provide that strength and it's incredible how many small ripples this community can turn in to a huge wave. You're an inspiration to everyone, and thanks for what you do and being a beacon of that strength you talk about. It's an honor to know you, and I'm for one looking forward to a 2012 where we can all put the lessons we've learned into more regular practice.
You are an amazing testament to an amazing mother (who I never had the chance to meet), and you are able to transmit that love, strength, and endurance to all you encounter. Sometimes it's hard to get out of the everyday mundane -- but when we do, we see the incredible, the beautiful, the awe-inspiring, and the generally uplifting-and-inspiring... It is that ability (to see the beauty, the upside, the gain) that gets us through the tough times...
Happy new year and may next year be better
As you draw strength from us, you give back as well.
I thank you for your voice in our community!
Your are going to have a Great 2012. How do I know this?
Simple!
If one stick to the basics like honouring the ones close to you when it is not needed - then once you do need them they will be there for you.
Looking forward to more of your posts in 2012
Pine
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