In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger — something better, pushing right back.” – Albert Camus

Winter comes sometimes in smoldering, oppressively hot days.
Forty days ago my world crumpled around me. People would ask,
“Is this your first stroke” and my instinct was to scream
(which would have sounded like inaudible diatribe,) “Yeah but my last one, too.
Forget doing this again!!” But I have found strength within,
I can and will refuse to be the victim here.
There is, in me, a strength never tested,
something making me  stronger, giving me a platform
to prove strength within, to push right back!