Dear Survivor,

Through storms I have persevered with humility and grace.
While waiting for each rainbow to appear and the sun shining upon my face.
Whether tear streaked in sorrow or smiling with pride, my eyes reveal a testimony.
Be it for fun or to help others in their afflictions, I use my storms to tell a story.
Of tenacity and resilience, for a survivor’s tale is often not just our own
We are called out of our struggles to be an encouragement for fellow spirits to make them strong.
From childhood trauma to overcome and complicated grief to navigate through.
I’ve done more than survive but have thrived in this life as a true conqueror must do.
As I speak to the trauma and dreams that seemed to go neck and neck
I’m grateful for the healing and recovery journey that derailed my life’s train wreck.
Out of all the struggles and storms, I’ve learned that I can overcome and still press on.
Out of the bed of afflictions I rise,
claiming the blessings that I was born.
For I have my purpose to fulfill in this life
Let not one ounce of my pain be in vain
I have each guided step to still take
and lessons learned that I will gain.
Conqueror and prayer warrior I’m made to be,
for The Most High makes no mistakes.
Every roller coaster ride, I take in stride
For it is in the living that makes us great.
I will stand in the word that uplifts and carries us all,
I will always fight to be the voice of change and answer the call.
And each time I feel that my spiritual light is growing weak or dim,
I will call upon Yah, angels and ancestors to fill my heart and spirit to the brim.
As I walk on with my head held high, stepping off on faith and not by sight.
May I always feel hope despite life storms to be a vessel of light.
So today I’m saying thank you to the little brown girl that I carry inside,
the one with the big heart and whose love flows like the tide.
Whose dreams are profound and her journey ordained,
Let joy fill your heart for the Lord knows and loves you by name.