A high pitched siren rang out in the distance A tree limb snapped and flew upwards I stood before the storm Head held high and defiant Challenging the maelstrom to a duel of wits Shouting "You may churn you evil beast You may bring death and destruction But YOU WILL NOT take me!"
The wind howled in agitated reply Tossing me high up into the sky Where rain turned to sleet Which turned to ice Freezing my flesh While simultaneously lacerating With razor precision The word "Slave" Upon my flesh
Then... I fell...
Into the storm wall I lashed out Imagining the cataclysm but a normal summer shower I imposed my will and shaped the storm Shouting "This life is mine alone. I am my own light and I live for myself. So take your darkness and destruction and go. For I am slave to no man nor beast... ...I, am FREE!"
Then it was that the storm died with me That day as I hit the ground Never to return nor destroy For I had finally defeated death and destruction By embracing life and all its pain
We all face that inner storm, that wall that likes to hold us back. Whether it is addiction or depression or the federal government we all face crucibles in life that ultimately define our character. Bravery, therefore, is the fearlessness to accept a challenge and refuse to back down holding firm and constant values.
Be brave in your life and face your crucible. Empower your values and shout "YOU WILL NOT CONTROL ME!" It is there you will find yourself truly free.