Thoughts on Strength II

I think this is important to revisit. . .Since there was a comment (thank you to L! XOXOX u2). . .And since I was spouting off following a very stressful week when I posted the first "Thoughts on Strength". . .

I think I should drill down a bit further. . .For myself. . .

How lucky for you. . .Read along as d once again spouts off. . .Not an expert or reference in sight!!

I don't necessarily perceive myself as a "strong" individual. I will confess to being strong willed. The two should not be confused. Clearly, on occasion I even confuse the two qualities.

Being strong-willed does not necessarily make you "strong." In fact, I think you might find that quite a few "strong," successful individuals are actually at their core a bit insecure, a bit scared, a bit weak, a tad ego-centric. . .or more than a bit. . .depending. . .

As I've grown older, my ideas of strength have evolved. I can no longer run a 5-6ish minute mile. I no longer have the "strength" to give my Mother the silent treatment for 6 consecutive weeks. . .Nor do I have the desire to do either of those things.

Strength, I'm learning comes from experience, and work. Strength - no matter the form - always seems to be a reward of work.

I work on staying positive, keeping perspective, being my authentic self. Strength of conviction, sense of self, a willing heart are I think more important than simply being what other's perceive as strong (often in a traditional sense or conventional way). I've been working hard in the past year to understand these things. To challenge myself to do the work necessary to move beyond conventional strong or ego-centric strong-willed.

Maybe it's paying off? I am honored people believe I am a strong person. I want to be a strong person. I'm sure I'm not alone in this endeavor.

Just keep in mind, strength is personal. Strength is subjective. We can all be strong in our own ways.

Strength isn't about a display of will, or a masking of feelings, or brute physical force. Strength can offer itself quietly and thoughtfully. . .

Strength is admirable. Strength is achievable for everyone. Strength should be used judiciously.