Chapter 177

I used to believe strength was something you were born with—either you had a strong will, or you were weak-minded. Just like how you were either inherently good or evil. That kind of black-and-white thinking brought me comfort, helping me make sense of the things that happened in my life. I never saw the world in shades of grey—I despised it. Grey was unsettling, creating confusion and inner conflict. It never occurred to me that true strength is forged during hardship, in moments when you've lost more than you've ever gained.