I have discovered a great secret. To live without tangible strength is to exist among the intangible things: like inner strength, unseen miracles and quiet victories.

Sounds a bit mystical, doesn’t it? So many people have told me they are praying for my healing. I know they mean visibly renewed health and strength. I would truly love that to be a reality for me. But in the meantime, I am discovering the life of opposites. When you think about a person walking unsteadily with a stick did it ever occur to you that they are strong? When a child says they are sorry, have you ever noticed they are teaching you an age-old wisdom? What is better: strength on the surface of things or inner power that will never leave you?

Of course, everyone wants recognition right now. An immediate acknowledgement that they are winners. I understand that. But I’m here to remind you about the unseen things you have. For the frightened, I say every time you step out your front door, you are brave. Every appointment you keep is a victory. If you feel shaky, remember that you are strong. If you are terrified by many things, you are courageous when you face even one. Turn away from the mirror and know you are beautiful. Believe you are precious and treat yourself like that.

I may not be striding along, but if anyone asks, I am running a race that takes me from here to eternity. And it is open for you too.