On Day 5, the theme was “Resilience.” These stories and poems showcase courage, determination, and the power to rise after every fall, inspiring us to face challenges with unwavering spirit.
1. Sia’s Triumph
The music playing in the background captivated Sia. Her body swayed, and her feet yearned to move, but the wheelchair couldn’t contain her spirit. Tears streamed down her face, but her passion for dancing drove her to push beyond her limits. With sheer determination, she steadied herself and took those first tentative steps. After two years, her feet came alive, and she lost herself in the rhythm, forgetting the world around her. She radiated energy and delivered the most powerful performance of her life. From the audience, Ashish and their group erupted in cheers for Sia, celebrating her triumph.
— Payel Biswas
2. Resilience Resurrected
Resilience wrapped her in silence,
as she stood by the steaming vessels,
the scent of cumin and charred bread
rising like muted memories.
She waited, like monsoons wait for parched fields,
like moons wait for dawn’s dismissal.
Always waiting—
childhood’s scolding, marriage’s moulding,
the lull of lullabies not yet sung.
Her hair knotted,
eyes flashing like flint,
words sharp as shards of glass.
When he sneered at the “leftovers,”
resilience resurrected,
rising like a red flame from embers.
Curtly, she carved the air—
“Cook your own hunger,
My strength won’t serve submission.”
— Dr. Ritu Kamra Kumar
3. Poem – Resilience in Action
When dominance rode high !
Intimidation walked by !
Superiority still thrived !
Subjugation was a ploy !…
Patience ! My pride !
Endurance ! My style !
Adaptability ! My guide !
And ‘RESILIENCE’, ! In my stride !…
Adapting to situations blatant !
Adjusting to the winds of change imminent !
Overcoming hurdles dominant !
Accepting life with dignity instant …
O’ Mother Of The Universe ! You’re an inspiration to life !
Your myriad qualities define a woman’s might !
Gone are the days of suffering and blight !
Your very thoughts instill confidence and courage in life !…
Your Resilience ! A divine quality !
We worship your strength and vitality !
Adore your love and kindness for humanity !
Your noble and kind qualities of pliability!
— Shakuntala Kanakagiri
4. James and the Flowers
James was proud of his classroom flowers. Every morning, he showed the students how to water them and care for them. But Lily, the mischievous cat, had other plans. One day she trampled the seedlings, another day she nibbled the petals. James flopped dramatically in his chair, and the students giggled.
“Class,” he said, straightening up, “life is like Lily—unexpected and messy. But see these flowers? I’ll replant, water, and care for them again. That’s resilience—rising every time life knocks you down, even if it’s a cat!”
By term’s end, the flowers bloomed, and Lily sat innocently beside them.
— Marilyn Evans
Each story and poem reflects the power of resilience, showing how inner strength, courage, and determination help us rise above challenges and keep moving forward.
If these stories inspired you, share your thoughts in the comments below!
