South African singer and songwriter Holly Rey has redefined what it means to be strong in a deeply personal revelation shared on her Instagram.
Rey's honest reflections have sparked a dialogue about the significant challenges of health issues and the importance of embracing vulnerability to recognise personal strengths.
Known for her powerful vocals and engaging presence, she shared a heartfelt message that touched many.
“The other day somebody said to me, ‘You’re so strong’ and I immediately responded with, ‘I really am not’,” she wrote.
This moment of honesty serves not only as a window into her soul but also as a reminder that many people grapple with their own battles, often hidden behind a facade of strength.
Over the past three months, Rey has faced a cascade of health challenges, including kidney failure, anaemia, and high blood pressure.
These issues have not only changed her daily life but also provoked a deeper reflection on what it means to be strong.
She describes a period marked by overwhelming emotions, moments of wishful giving up, and the painful admission that perfection in daily performance is neither attainable nor necessary.
“Strength is waking up each day and making a choice to do your best. To wake up and try,” Rey concluded.
She shared that her journey towards resilience involved confronting her limitations while acknowledging the small victories that came daily, be it completing multiple tasks or something as simple as maintaining personal hygiene.
The artist shared the profound change in her diet, becoming vegetarian for health reasons and learning to understand her body’s needs.
Each day became an opportunity for Rey to tackle life’s challenges in manageable portions rather than allowing overwhelming situations to take charge.
By taking “bite-sized chunks,” she feels more empowered and capable of dealing with whatever life throws her way.
Rey’s message is a touching reminder to her audience: “No matter what you are going through and no matter how hopeless or weak you feel, this is just a reminder that your choice to wake up and try your best is your strength.”
This statement not only embodies her insight but also serves to encourage others who may be experiencing their own struggles.
Last month, Rey shared her ongoing healing journey following a diabetes diagnosis.
Having been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 11, she has always been transparent about her health struggles.
However, February proved particularly difficult; following a recent diagnosis that deepened her turmoil, Rey candidly expressed her reality, stating: “February has been hard. I have no motivational quote or whole-hearted insight into how to stay strong through struggles because the truth is it sucks.”
Despite these overwhelming periods, Rey conveyed immense gratitude for the unwavering support of family, friends, and fans.