On Strength

A friend of Alli's was over for a playdate this past weekend. He is a darling boy with whom I'm glad she is friends. Although... I'm afraid he might have a bit to learn, especially if Alli's prediction on their future nuptials comes true.

At one point, they were doing something that evidently needed some muscles - perhaps opening something or lifting a heavy object. He says "Alli, boys are stronger than girls. I should do that."

Both Alli and I disagreed, immediately and outloud. Alli said "uh... no... I'm just as strong as you." And I said "whether you're a boy or a girl has nothing to do with how strong you are."

Perhaps we were a little abrupt for the boy who didn't mean any harm, but still... I am glad my daughter stood up for herself and her gender.

In any case, this exchange got me thinking about the strongest people I know. And, well, it is not that I don't know some strong men, but the majority of the people I know who exhibit true strength, are women.

Strength isn't just about your muscles and how much you can lift (although I do know some women who can lift more than most men). True strength is about your heart and spirit. It comes from determination, perseverance, and your willingness to help others despite the battles you face on your own.

Strength is looking your obstacles in the eye and saying "move aside." And sometimes, it is as simple as not giving up... In not believing that the other option is a viable one. It is moving forward regardless of fear, failure or barriers. And, perhaps most importantly, strength is showing yourself and others that whatever you have to achieve is possible, and is worth doing.

All of us, no matter our differences in gender, ethnicity, religion, orientation, age or body type, can exhibit true strength. We can face our fears and obstacles with courage and grace, and we can take one step leading to another. We can grow from our hardships, and succeed because we learned from our failures. We can move forward because giving up is not a viable option. And, when we see someone else in need, we can help that person face his or her battles head on.

But sometimes, we just don't feel strong. Sometimes the obstacles seem insurmountable. Good news - we can take heart in knowing that there are people out there who can be strong for us when we need them. Asking for help (this is one I'm still learning), isn't a sign of weaknesses - it's actually a sign of greater strength. It is knowing that achieving the goal is more important doing it on our own, or that a little support from others goes a long way in bolstering our own internal fortitude.

If the only purpose I have is to ensure that my children get this message, then my life will be worthwhile.

I am strong and I intend to always be. Move aside obstacles, I'm coming through. Oh, and look out, my daughter is coming through, too!