INSPIRATION

Everyone has those pieces of literature that keep them inspired, motivated, encouraged and strong in the face of life's monstrosities.  This is one of mines:

INVICTUS 

Out of the night that covers me
Black as the pit from pole to pole
I thank whatever Gods maybe
For my unconquerable soul!

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud
Under the bludgeoning 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 me and shall find me unafraid

It matters not how straight the gate
How charged with punishment the scroll
I am the master of my fate
I am the captain of my soul.

By William Ernest Henly