Strength Comes in Many Forms

A few months ago, a friend of my spouse came over to hang out with her. They chit chatted a lot about what friends usually chat about, and to be polite, I joined the conversation. 

We were talking about the people in our lives, and for some reason, she made some comments about me not being a strong person. I forgot exactly what she said (probably a defense mechanism), but I felt a little insulted. 

Then I had to remind myself one important thing: she barely knows me. Even though I’ve known her for years, she still has no idea who I really am. Maybe because I’m outwardly cool, calm, and have a sense of humor, that it didn’t fit her stereotypical view of what a strong person was. 

I am friendly, I am kind, and I am understanding. I am also assertive, tough, and direct, even if I don’t look like it. I may not always feel like it, but I do consider myself very strong.

Strength comes in many forms. It comes in the form of a person dealing with depression who gets up each day and faces the challenges of everyday life. It looks like someone who decides to go through the physically and emotionally draining process of battling cancer. It looks like vulnerability. It is a person who is secure in her or his own skin. It looks like someone speaking up when something is unjust. Strength looks like confidence in yourself and your abilities.  

It isn’t just being strong, true strength lies in you being the best version of you.  When you are mentally, physically, and emotionally strong, you are being the strength that’s needed in this world.

Roderick Conwi is the Executive Editor at Nourishment Notes. He is also the author of The Procrastinator's Quick Guide To Getting It Done. To get powerful insights that enhance your day, join his free newsletter.