"Invictus" by William Ernest Henley

We all face challenges in our lives. What separates people of character from spineless wieners is the way they face those challenges. In the poem “Invictus,” British poet William Ernest Henley describes how a person should respond to challenges. “Invictus” is Latin for “unconquerable.” Every person should have an unconquerable spirit. When life kicks you in the gut, get back up and kick life’s butt. 

                                                                   Out of the night that covers me,

                                                                   Black as the Pit from pole to pole,

                                                                   I thank whatever gods may be

                                                                  For my unconquerable soul.

                                                                   In the fell clutch of circumstance

                                                                  I have not winced nor cried aloud.

                                                                 Under the bludgeonings 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, and shall find me, unafraid.

                                                                It matters not how strait the gate,

                                                               How charged with punishments the scroll,

                                                                I am the master of my fate;

                                                                I am the captain of my soul.

Original article : @ http://www.artofmanliness.com/ by  Brett & Kate McKay