That Girl

That girl
Sitting next to you on the
bus
Eating dinner in her favourite
restaurant
Walking to the store for
milk
Small smile on her face
Expressionless eyes
In a daze or maybe a
fog
Given sideways glances
raised eyebrows
Silent assessments
judgements
A war is raging in her
A battle being fought
Silently screaming
Gasping for breath
Struggling to climb
her way out
an insurmountable task.
Today I am
That girl
Tomorrow you may be
That girl

When I was a young girl, I wrote poetry. I was published, asked to read at Women’s Day celebrations and school assemblies. A rawness, an angst, a sensitivity to the struggles we all face, poured out of me at a very young age.

In recent years, while attempting to write poetry or really, my true desire, song lyrics, everything sounded like a Hallmark Card or a made for TV movie. I have also recently had difficulty figuring out my voice. I’m rediscovering my blog voice, style, purpose.

2018 has been a tremendous year of set backs, triumphs, insights, personal growth and especially of great learnings. It hasn’t all been shiny or happy, but it has been impactful. As we head towards another new year, I am filled with a sense of hope, of promise, of dedication and determination. But most importantly, I am humbled and grateful for where I’ve been, where I am and where I’m headed.

This has come from great struggle.

At different times, in various moments, we all struggle. We all feel like falling down. Not knowing if we have the strength to climb out. Behind the smile and the outward cheer, there could be an amazing opportunity to reach out, provide courage and spread kindness.

Be That Girl 💚