Finding Strength

Lately I've found myself thinking about strength... where we find it, how we cultivate it, and what it does for us. For many, many years I relied on inner strength to give me courage, confidence, and support. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do things on my own, relying solely on my inner strength to do so. This internal commitment eventually led to the construction of impenetrable walls, meant to keep out others who could harm me or hold me back from achieving what I wanted. I considered myself independent, strong, and self-reliant, only needing to look within to find the strength to tackle the challenges in front of me. While this inner strength has been there to guide tough decisions and calm jittery nerves, I've learned over the more recent months the importance of finding strength in other places.

As I mulled over this idea, I posed a question on Twitter asking where others found strength. It was interesting to read the replies and messages from people I know very well and those I've never even met in person. One person noted that she found strength in a spiritual group of friends and mentors. Another noted that he's found strength from a new friend who pushes him physically and mentally to be the best person he can be. Escaping to the city to immerse herself in the arts gave strength to one, while another found it in motivational quotes and lyrics of songs. A good friend of mine finds strength in family and returning home for respites, while another finds herself in prayer on a regular basis.

These multiple avenues to finding strength challenged me to consider how different circumstances require different responses. The strength to get up every morning, for many, comes from a career they love, motivation to finish a task they started yesterday, or to see the smiling face of their young child. The strength to make a difficult decision is found for many, on the other hand, through conversations with trusted friends, meditation or prayer to a higher power, or a commitment to one's morals and ethics. The thing that struck me most is how many people noted inner strength as being important but also made it a point to mention relationships and partners. We value our own drive and energy when it comes to finding strength, but deep down we really need the support and validation from others to make us feel content.

I ask you to look around and consider how you help others find strength. It's easy for us to look at ourselves and identify who, what, how, or where we develop our strength, but it's much harder to see how we're paying it forward to others. Humanity is built on relationships and relationships are built on trust, honesty, and supporting each other. Who around you is going through a difficult time? Who might be facing a challenging situation or decision? Who always says their okay but really is just yearning for someone to take the time to listen? Look around and find that person. Take some time to talk to them, ask questions, and give support or reassurance. You never know who might need that little bit of strength from you.

Be happy for who you are. Be grateful for what you have.