You stand out—but never alone.

You read stories of how individuals overcame obstacles, pulling themselves by their proverbial “bootstraps.” Yes, we must take the first step and possess some self-motivation.

No one ever really goes it alone

No one ever really goes it alone.

When I was going to graduate school, working full-time, and just trying to keep my head above water, I was surrounded by love and support.  My husband cooked dinner for himself and our sons. One son would bring me snacks late at night or on the weekend as I scoured research articles and wrote papers. 

When I was going to graduate school, working full time, and just trying to keep my head above water, I was surrounded by love and support.  My husband cooked dinner for himself or our sons. One son would bring me snacks late at night or on the weekend as I scoured over research articles and wrote papers. 

Friends sent notes of encouragement and hung with me, foregoing lunch and excursions. My daughter, busy with a new baby, never let me forget that my goals mattered. Our youngest son listened as I expounded on some new theory or idea fermenting in my thoughts.

Could I have reached the destination without the guidance of a brilliant professor or classmates who challenged my thinking? Maybe, but each gave me a piece of courage and persistence that smoothed the path.

On graduation day, I may have been the one walking across the stage, but I was never alone. And I am forever grateful.

Who stands by you?

Stand by me, always