Unconquered

I have no regrets, I shun all fears, I take up the challenge.  

I pray that in the process I do not lose myself nor my charity nor my dignity, but instead win back that to which I was called for - a destiny forged in blood and tears.

I have faith - I will prevail.

For what chance do I stand against kismet? 

Not when I know I am loved immensely.

Invictus

by William Ernest Henley; 1849-1903

Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the Pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate;

I am the captain of my soul.