The Sacred Enemy

The Sacred Enemy

I am grateful for those who deceived me, for they revealed the lies in my own heart.

I am grateful for those who defeated me, because they pushed me harder than I would have ever pushed myself.

I am grateful for those who trapped me, because they forced me to find a freedom independent of the external world.

I am grateful for those who slandered me, for they cleansed me of false friends.

I am grateful for those who abused me, because they taught me to stand up for myself.

I am grateful for those who cheated me, because they taught me to value my own worth.

I am grateful for those who betrayed me, for they forced me to rest only in the love that is eternal.

As The fleetness of the stag is honed by the ferocity of the wolf, and the hardness of steel is due to the cruelty of the forge and hammer, I, also, am greater because of my suffering.

For the love which rules the world cares not for my comfort and ease, but only for my awakening.

-Stephen Opper, 08-25-2018