I have always considered myself a very strong and independent person. I’ve been through, what feels at times to be, more than my share of hardship and heartache. Yet I have always persevered, gotten through and seen the sunshine on the other side. Despite this, I’ve come to realize something. You can be as strong as Superman, independent and self-sufficient enough to live on an island, but when you are down, truly and desperately down, you are only as strong as those who will stand around you. Those who will shelter you from the storm, keep the wolves at bay and stand at the ready should you need a word of encouragement, a hug, or simply some space and time to feel the ache. It is these people who are truly the measure of your strength. They are the ones who see you vulnerable and instead of taking advantage or casting aside they gather their weapons to ensure you are left in peace.

As children, family means the people that you were born into; parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc. However, as you get older you get to add to and choose your family. Choose the people that you hold near and dear. The people who get your time and energy before anyone else. The people who will stand with you through thick and thin. Over the past couple of weeks it has become very obvious to me that I have chosen well. I have an amazing family, and I am stronger than I ever thought I could be.