Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D)officially is Gabrielle Giffords, following her resignation from Congress this week. Of the tough steps she has taken in the last year toward recovering from a gunshot to her head Jan. 8, 2011 near Tucson, AZ, I think this might be hardest for her.

What does it take to say, “I can’t” when it’s your dream you are talking about?

What does it take to acknowledge determination and will and prayers brought you to a place that isn’t where you want to be?

What does it take to be the one most others see differently now, as a reflection of a tragedy?

What does it take to relinquish without knowing if what is lost will be replaced by something else that is precious, too?

I know it takes what she’s got because I’ve witnessed her strength from afar. She also may really be hurting.