When did we become strong, like birds in flight

When did we become strong, like birds in flight, our voices rising in the gentle wind, Whispering pain like leaves in the breeze, walls learning to forget in silence, Strong like rocks in the deep sea, we stood like trees confronting the storm, Not to fight, but just to breathe in the silence of the night with a heavy heart, Tears wiped away like dew at dawn, waiting for rain in deserts of clouds, Embracing others, even with cold bones, giving warmth when hearts are dry, Burdens carried, wings grown in secret, like travelers passing through shadows, We wanted to give up, but we took a step, hope or stubbornness held us, Before the page, with the pen like a sword raised, hands trembling, mind screaming, but we believed, Perhaps strength is too small a word to encompass the burden of our ancient soul, Strength is not a form, but every scar, every step, every joyous survival, We are strong in ways the world does not understand, shining in unspoken silence and tumult.