Resiliency

Yesterday, I was in a meeting and I sat next to an old friend.  We haven't talked much over the past few years, I realized how much I miss her in my life. In all these years, she has never missed my birthday or anniversary. She is an amazing woman, who has endured life's trials and has come out stronger.  I believe that I am a better person just by having known her. She has raised 2 sons on her own, helped one through a drug addiction, and  buried a grandson. She has also quit smoking, another lesson learned from her.  Her life certainly was not easy, but she prevailed. We were given a test on resilient behavior.  I read some of the questions and knew I was not a resilient person.  Test questions were to be numbered  1strongly disagree and 5 strongly agree.  Ex; Are you able to bounce back from a negative experience.   Most of her answers were 4 and 5's.  I believe she answered honestly.  I have watched her for over a decade. She takes God's trials and blessing with ease.  She mourns when she has to, and puts herself together and helps others through their own trials.  She is the epitome of a true woman, she is a caregiver.  I love to hear her laugh, I love also to have the chance to be there when she needs me.  This woman has taught me so much about strength, I see now that there is more to learn from her.