Resiliency and Strength

Where there is no struggle, there is no strength. – Oprah Winfrey

The resilient nature and strength we have as human beings is amazing. I see resiliency and strength in a mother, who 1 day shy of turning 42 discovers she is pregnant with triplets. A completely unexpected and miraculous surprise. The idea of triplets alone would be daunting, but to find out as the babies are delivered that “oops, ah, we missed a little something. All three babies have been delivered, but um, we see another set of feet here. It looks like your triplets are actually quadruplets folks” (my personal take on the birthing, not actual quotes from the Doctor).

Wow, can you imagine? From all accounts, what I have seen of this story and the family is beautiful. The parents are taking what comes their way in stride, managing life one step at a time. Great strength and resiliency during a  daunting yet joyous time.

I also am privy to a show of resiliency and strength in a time of sorrow. A woman friend of mine is struggling with the reality that her brilliant husband and a longstanding pillar of the community,  is slowly losing the mind God so miraculously blessed him with. He who stood strong and courageous in battles waged to better his community, is now facing a different sort of battle. This womans strength to wade in and tackle whatever comes her way, to “just do what has to be done” in the midst of her great pain is awe inspiring and a testament to the resiliency we all can muster up to face whatever challenges that come our way.

Seeing these great examples of strength and resiliency, I am forced to ask myself two questions, “where does this resiliency and fountain of strength come from?” and “will I have what it takes when the time comes for me to face my own challenges?”  In answer, I don’t think this kind of strength and resiliency is won overnight, but developed slowly over time in  the small challenges and petty annoyances we face everyday. How I handle myself with the small things will determine how I respond when the bigger tests come along.  In addition, I am beginning to understand that this kind of strength comes from a source outside myself. It is given to me by God exactly when I need it most. He is always on time giving me the strength I need when I ask Him, and many times even when I don’t. Winter is waning and spring is finally on it’s way. If you haven’t already been thinking about what to plant in your garden, it is time. Hurray! I love getting my hands in the dirt and watching those little shoots spring up from the soil. This is one of my most favorite times of year (actually, I say that about the beginning of every season).

How to Start Seeds Indoors