You never know strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have. ~ Unknown

Wave after wave.  Storm after storm.  She still stands.  The Frisco Pier is such an incredible metaphor for life.  Despite years of destruction, neglect, and abuse she's holding her own.  Standing proud on an unstable ground.  With each storm that passes, she sacrifices a small piece of herself.  And yet, we still flock to her.  Visitors come to Hatteras Island from faraway and near for the fishing, the surfing, or just to catch a glimpse of inspiration.

She made broken look beautiful and strong look invincible.  She walked with the universe on her shoulders and made it look like a pair of wings. ~ Unknown

We'll continue to go.  Until the last piling falls and she washes out with the current.  We'll mourn her loss, taking all the memories she has to offer.  And then, we'll go in her remembrance.  We'll stand on the beach, telling stories of a time when she stood whole, full of colors and life and the sounds of sweet summer fun.

If you feel you need a little extra strength today, she'll offer you hers.  She'll remind you that while you might be broken, imperfect, incomplete, you have a power inside of you to thrive despite all of that.  Stand tall.  Stand proud.  Even as the storm whips around you, tearing down your foundation.  Because the sun will rise tomorrow, shining on your crippled bones, drying it all out for another day.