I can only imagine the hope in Mary Elizabeth’s eyes as she heard the lingering conversations she had the opportunity to eavesdrop on. A new adventure few had gone on all filled with promises. Her eagerness could be felt as she embarked and her despair at the possibility of dealing with life’s hardships. Nothing she heard had prepared her for the trials and tribulations she faced every day. Trying to remain strong is an ordeal when your very existence is threatened.