Today is My 10th Birthday!

Today, I celebrate my 10th birthday.
I consider it a birthday because January 4, 2009 was the day that I truly began living.
It's the day that marks my reinvention.

I've written in a prior post about my past. There's no need for all of the details, here.
Those closest to me know them all.
Many that lived through the details with me learned to keep their distance.
Time has healed those deeply wounded, now we love each other from afar.

This is not a post to pat myself on the back.
This is a post to express my extreme gratitude.
I am grateful for those that helped me in my time of need.
I am grateful for those that have stuck by me through the years.
I am grateful for those that are no longer here.

There is one thing that remains constant... it's change.
There was a time in my life that I struggled with it.
I fought with every bone in my body against it.
Now, I've learned to embrace change.
Now, I fight with every bone in my body for it.

Whether you are running from change or fighting for it, it's an uphill battle.
But humans have incredible potential to conquer adversity.
We overcome all odds, only to find that more adversity awaits.

With each victory, we grow ever slightly more confident that we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. 

But we cannot do it alone.
We find strength in numbers.
We find hope in others.

Whatever it is that you are fighting for,
Take a moment to acknowledge those that stand by your side.
Take a moment to acknowledge those that have fallen.

Now, go forth.