That which does not kill us
Filed by: Guest Blogger
June 3, 2009 10:30 AM

http://www.bilerico.com/2009/06/that_which_does_not_kill_us.php

Editors' Note: Guest blogger Elsbeth Goff is presently unemployed and learning of the trials and tribulations of an out transwoman trying to find a job. A recent stroke has further complicated her life, but then without it, things would be just too easy now wouldn't it?

One of my favorite philosophers once said "That which does not kill us, makes us stronger."

It seems kind of trite now a days, being quoted by cartoon characters and cheesy movie villains when they want them to sound profound. It kind of takes the polish off of a phrase when it gets reduced to banality by misuse.

There is the essential kernel of truth to the statement though, if you stop to consider it. Strength comes in many forms besides the physical. Most queer folk have become mentally stronger from the abuse they have had to put up with in a society that does not understand or accept them. Many transfolk become a much stronger person after going through transition. Everyone can become stronger if they learn to recognize the signs of a stroke, or if it is too late and you have had one already, to stay focused on the recovery and the joy of just being alive after suffering one that could just have easily killed them.