The last time we checked in on ZenPencils.com, we were introduced to Rising Phoenix. She is a lawyer turned wrestler that embodies Howard Thurman’s quote: “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” By the end of the strip, the Phoenix has emerged from the ashes of a lawyer to become a elbow-dropping wrestler:

That could have been the end of the Phoenix saga (sorry, had to) but this character represents so much more. In the newest strip, Artist Gavin Aung Than showcases the trials a Wrestler faces upon breaking into the Business. A Marie Curie quote shows us the path: “Life is not easy for any of us.” In-ring defeats, lots of bandages, next to nothing income, loneliness all build to an overwhelming desire to quit.

Check Out the Larger Version Here

But that’s just the first part. Here’s the comeback: “But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained.” Wrestling embodies this struggle, no matter what spot you have on the card. It’s not just possible, but necessary to get back up and keep fighting. Doing so will inspire someone to want your autograph. This Zen Pencils strip should be pinned up in every wrestling locker room in the WWE Universe. Or at least in the Miz’s locker room.

For more inspirational imagery that accompanies inspirational words, check out ZenPencils.com. Also, we’d be remiss if we did not acknowledge the reference to the iconic page from Amazing Spider-Man #50. Spidey was also a Wrestler, you know.