The Weight of 'Why Me': Echoes of a Questioned Soul

The question "Why me?" that arises when we face loss, failure, and unfair treatment. Drawing inspiration from Maya Angelou’s poem "Still I Rise," it emphasizes the importance of staying motivated despite life’s challenges. 

"Why me?" It’s a thought that creeps in when we lose something dear, when we fail despite our best efforts, or when we’re treated unfairly by a world that seems indifferent. These moments of hardship—be it a shattered dream, a personal defeat, or an unjust slight—can weigh heavily on our spirits. Yet, as Maya Angelou’s iconic poem "Still I Rise" teaches us, these struggles don’t have to define us. Instead, they can fuel our determination to push forward, to rise above, and to reclaim our strength.

Patty has long turned to "Still I Rise" as a beacon of hope during their own trials. Written in 1978, Angelou’s poem is a powerful celebration of resilience, self-worth, and defiance in the face of adversity. Its words have echoed through the host’s life, offering solace and motivation when the question "Why me?" felt overwhelming. In this episode, they share candid reflections on how the poem has guided them through dark times, from personal losses to moments of doubt, revealing how its message of perseverance has shaped their outlook.

Life’s unfairness is a universal experience. We’ve all stumbled under the weight of setbacks—a job lost, a relationship ended, or a betrayal that stings too deep. These are the times when we feel crushed, when the dirt of misfortune seems to bury us. But Angelou’s voice cuts through the despair: "You may trod me in the very dirt / But still, like dust, I’ll rise." This imagery speaks to our innate ability to stand up again, to shake off the dust of defeat and emerge stronger. In this episode, we dive into this idea, exploring how these "Why me?" moments can become stepping stones to resilience.

This isn’t just about recognizing life’s hardships—it’s about finding the spark to keep going. Through the her personal stories, insights from inspiring guests, and the timeless wisdom of Angelou’s poetry, we uncover ways to transform pain into power.

Patty also unpack key lines from the poem, like "Does my sassiness upset you?"* and "I am the dream and the hope of the slave," examining how they inspire us to embrace our worth and rise with boldness. Angelou’s words reach across generations, speaking to anyone who’s felt beaten down yet refuses to stay there. For our host, this poem is a touchstone, a reminder that motivation isn’t just about moving past hardship—it’s about rising with purpose.

Join Patty with the blend poetry, personal growth, and real-life stories to tackle the question "Why me?" Whether you’re wrestling with your own challenges or seeking a boost of inspiration, this episode