the true test of strength
is less of a test
and more like showing up to class
late
with dog-eaten homework
halfway through the semester
and sitting with a dignity
such that the final grade
does not matter.
it is grabbing onto something-
anything-
and saying i will not be shaken
shaken as i am
to the ground
i will resurface
the true test of strength
is being in the middle
better than where you started
still
no reward in sight
dim lights
and a brighter abyss
and telling yourself
among all of your other voices
that you will talk louder
you will find the light
if you have to crawl
the world will follow after.
Continuation
is the strength
sometimes strength is not magnificent
nor is victory always in the finish line
offer your effort
to the gamble that is life
ask for nothing
trust your struggle
walk with all life has given you
trust your tired footprints
honest as the dirt that accumulates
they will make your home
and who wants to live
anywhere but in Truth?
©noodle
N