A pregnancy! A birth! A child!

What's next?

Do you ever stop to think of what that line means in between the date of birth and date of death on a tombstone? How that little dash encompasses all the wonderful miracles, hardships, trials, and blessings a child would go through before he or she returns to the dust.

Life is full of unexplained, unforeseen events that can cause an influx of various emotions, making you feel like you're on a rollercoaster of highs and lows. These emotions however can help shape your character either negatively or positively depending on how you handle each situation.

Sometimes, we have heartaches and pains that plunge us into a valley of doubt and fear filled with deep depression. The days we spend in sorrow and despair may seem never ending; however, there are days filled with laughter and hope that cultivate the feeling of love, like the warm embrace of the sunshine that brings joy after the summer rain.

Yes, it is true that life right now may seem chaotic, difficult, or painful at times, but even through this tumultuous life span, there is an inner strength and powerful force that guides and manoeuvres every decision you will make. With all that is happening around you, if you have that persistent will to survive, you can be this child, A Lily Amongst Thorns.