You Never Know How Strong You Are Until Being Strong Is Your Only Choice
Bob Marley
This was written on a plaque that was given to my husband when he was diagnosed with cancer. We hung it in his shop and looked at it whenever we needed encouragement over the next few months. It’s a constant reminder that it is possible to get through whatever it is that’s trying to bring you down. (I’m happy to say that he’s been cancer-free for seven years now.)
But it’s also a quote that we all need right now. I know it must be so hard. Right now, I work OT each week from home, and my husband still hasn’t collected his first unemployment check from the state of Florida. He’s been out of work since mid-March. I get this feeling that he’ll actually be back at work and getting a real paycheck long before he gets an unemployment check. That’s how antiquated the Florida unemployment system is.
And yet, we are the lucky ones. We have food on the table and can stretch to meet our bills. So many people in Florida, however, rely on two incomes that were tied to the hospitality industry. And now they both wait for unemployment checks. And they also wait, patiently, in long lines of cars, praying there will still be food when they get to the front of the line.
And that is the definition of strong.
It’s so incredibly tough out there at the moment. Some of us are luckier than others and some luckier still, yet everyone has been impacted in some way. That saying though is oh so true. You don’t know how strong you are until that’s your only choice. Take care.
Thank you for sharing. My husband and I too went through his cancer. Grateful that he has been in remission for four years. When he was first diagnosed (Malignant metastatic melanoma) our doctor told me to prepare myself. We are grateful. He is retired, I play at retirement, but my daughter is one of those people who works in hospitality. Sharing these stories is important, because even with the best of intentions, it is easy to think we are the only ones who struggle. Blessings and thanks for sharing. Looking forward to more. I shared this on Pinterest.
I’m an almost 16 year survivor. I think this enforced isolation from society has brought out some anxiety in me as I feel almost claustrophobic at times. I don’t like flying either. I’m grateful it’s nice enough to go outside!
Hi Jennifer, I didn’t realise your husband was a cancer survivor so you have already been tested haven’t you? It is so difficult for some at this time and I count my blessings that we are no longer dependent on a salary for income, we have enough food and a comfortable home which we own. Sending you best wishes and hope that your husband is soon back at work. It is a very anxious time for you. Thanks for sharing at #MLSTL. x
It’s tough indeed for a lot of people Jennifer – waiting for govt assistance is a big thing in Australia as well – so many new applications and nowhere near enough people to process them. We’re doing fine atm but definitely noticed a reduction in my husband’s client numbers and a fall in income – I’m so grateful that we’re not big spenders and aren’t carrying any debt.
Thanks for linking up with us at MLSTL and I’ve shared on my SM ?
Jennifer you have definitely been tested. We just never know what life will throw at us next. It’s very sad to see how many people are really suffering. My inconvenience of self isolating is nothing and doesn’t take any strength at all. I am aware of how lucky I am.
So true, Jennifer. We are the lucky ones too. It’s so hard to see people starving in India. We’ve tried to help as much as possible, but there’s a lot that the government can do that they’re not doing too.
So beautiful, Jennifer, and so needed in this tough time. Glad to hear you and your husband are doing well.
by far the most appropriate quote I’ve seen in weeks. Thank you for this post. Sending love.