Voice of Reason

I deserve better than this.

My inner voice shouted it clear as a bell. I rasied my eyebrows and stood taller.

Strong Jen is back. The Jen who walked away from a dead marriage when she realized she didn't respect the man who promised to be there for her, the Jen who braved returning to school so she could create a better life for herself and her family, the Jen who got hit by a car and ran a marathon eight days later...that Jen...she's back.

I etched the word near my heart for a reason. I knew there would be days when I might not feel strong. We can all use a reminder now and then, and I see it every morning. Some days I believe it more than others. Today I know.

I am worthy of nothing less than magnificent. And if magnificent takes the form of remaining a strong, independent single woman, so be it.