As God is My Witness
One of the greatest literary masterpieces of the 20th century takes place during the American Civil War, and centers around a green-eyed piece of work named Scarlett O'Hara. If Scarlett has one desire above all others, it is to become like her mother, a true southern belle known throughout the community to be a great lady. Unfortunately, Scarlett has a few personal quirks that make her despised by most people she meets, such as selfishness, behaving in a distinctly unladylike fashion for her time, and using any means to achieve her ends. Despite these seemingly negative traits, throughout the course of her story Scarlett learns the meaning of extreme sacrifice, courage in the face of adversity, perseverance, determination, and doing what must be done in order to survive. Though very few understand her motives, and though we may not agree with her choices, we cannot ignore her grit, nor the fact that it and it alone ensured her survival. Though the refined and delicate character of her mother was all that Scarlett ever wanted to be, we all know that Mrs. O'Hara could not have survived the same challenges that Scarlett faced - and she didn't - and that Scarlett, though unconventional, is ultimately the stronger of the two.
Though my own trials have been unconventional and hard to put to words, I know for myself that had I not experienced these things, I would not be who I am today. Had I not trudged through months and years of never-ending frustrations, I would not have learned the meaning of the words "empathy", "understanding", "compassion", and "Christ-like love". I would not have come to look in the mirror and see a survivor. Did it hurt? Excruciatingly. Was it all worth it? Yes. Because I know for myself - I am one tough cookie. I am not a push over. I do not give up.
"Though she be but little, she is fierce."
- Helena, A Midsummer Night's Dream
All of us are children of the most High God, who loves us enough to let us experience adversity.
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