A long, long time ago, before I’d gone through hardships of my own, a dear friend told me that she went through a hardship at a young age so she could be a guide for those who face similar circumstances in the future. Now that I’ve been through my fair share, I see how true this is in my life, as well. Here’s a poem that once-upon-a-time saved me. Thankful for the wisdom and honesty of dear Mary Oliver.