The Will to Shine

I've cried enough tears till my eyes could weep no more. Pain, a mere consequence of love— felt sometimes when it's here, other times when it's gone. Given at times, taken at others. To heal, we must learn to forgive ourselves, to endure rather than run, to grow even in the harshest conditions. What is life without the will to strive, to serve and, when it's our turn, to receive? Life is but a pendulum, swinging ceaselessly, offering both joy and sorrow. So we learn Amor Fati, embracing what comes, and Memento Mori, remembering what must end. To live as we are willed, manifesting the glory and grace of God. How can we fulfill God's will if we refuse to shine? Whom do we serve when we shrink from our light? What benefit is there to those we love, if we dim ourselves for fear of shining too bright? To love is to teach.