Yes Little One, I know how your spirit resonates with such images of thriving despite the challenge. Blades of grass growing in the cracks of asphalt earth, tiny buds clinging to their spring beauty, and even trees finding roots in rock. Perhaps all humans find kindred spirits in such images. But know Little One that though your experience may mirror such images of triumph and “despite” you are so much more. You are the golden crown of the sunrise. The winged birds in flight. The beauty of autumn’s regal robes and spring’s adornment. You are the rose’s fragrance and the sunflower’s face. You are the river’s song and ocean’s tympani. You are the moon’s gentle candle and the hush of snow at night. You are the arch of the rainbow and the deer’s soft gaze. Hold to the images of triumph as proof of victory that is yours. But never, never Little One, doubt that you differ in the least from the beauty, grace, and strength that surrounds you. Never doubt the beauty of your own sweet spirit. Let not the image of struggle deny the beauty that is yours.

“How can we ever know the difference we make to the soul of the earth?” (John O’Donohue)