As I sit down to write this, I find myself grappling with a heavy heart, a whirlwind of emotions, and a touch of exhaustion. I’m tired. It’s not the first time I’ve shared this sentiment with those around me, and I dare say it won’t be the last. I’m exhausted, actually. Drained.

This year has had a penchant for throwing me curveballs, one after another. It’s been a relentless onslaught of trials, each one making me question the extent of my strength. But as someone reminded me today, I’m an incredibly strong woman, even in the face of these relentless challenges.

But more than that, here’s the thing: I’m human. This is the human experience, a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes, it leaves us feeling a bit lost, unsure of what to write, what to say, or how to navigate the uncharted waters of our lives.

As I look around, I can’t help but wonder, is there a hint of cognitive bias in my perception of the year’s hardships? Do I mistakenly believe that my suffering is equal to others, or perhaps that others have it even worse? Could it be a coping mechanism, a way to rationalize the chaos that’s unfolded? I can’t help but analyze myself.

In all honesty, this year has been a bumpy ride for many. It’s almost as if the universe conspired to test our collective resilience. For me, it meant facing death, illness, and rejection, one hit after another. It’s been nothing short of horrific. But there’s a silver lining, a beacon of hope in the midst of these storms.

I have a network of support that’s unwavering, a constellation of people who showed up when I needed them most. It’s a testament to the power of love and human connection. When I look around, I see others who, too, have faced their own storms with courage and fortitude.

My son, my resilient, wonderful son, has been my anchor. He’s navigated his own challenges with grace, reminding me that we’re not alone in this journey. We’re a team, facing life’s unpredictabilities together. His resilience fills me with pride and gratitude. I’m beam when I talk about him. Even when he’s grumpy and embarrassed by my adoration.

And yes, it’s love that seems to be the ever-present headline of this year. Love, in all its myriad forms, coats my heart. It’s the protective layer that shields me from despair and wraps me in warmth. Love doesn’t erase the sadness, the anxiety, or the heartfelt loss of the year. Instead, it transforms them into something bearable.

In moments of darkness and despair, love emerges as a beacon of light. It’s the hand reaching out in the midst of a storm, the voice of reason when all seems lost, and the unwavering support that carries us through. It’s the love of friends, of family (both biological and chosen), of a resilient son, and of the countless others who’ve been a part of this tumultuous journey.

So, what does it mean to be strong in the face of adversity? It’s not about invincibility or imperviousness to pain. Strength, in its truest form, is found in vulnerability. It’s about acknowledging the depths of our emotions, the rawness of our experiences, and our ability to keep moving forward despite it all.

As we navigate the unpredictable tides of life, as I believe that we all are, may we find solace in the knowledge that we’re not alone. We’re part of a tapestry woven with threads of love, resilience, and the shared experiences of humanity. And even in the darkest moments, we can take solace in the love that coats our hearts, offering a glimmer of hope and a reminder that we’re stronger than we might ever have imagined.