In the Quiet Moments

• Main Entry: strength
• Pronunciation: \ˈstreŋ(k)th, ˈstren(t)th\
• Function: noun
• Inflected Form(s): plural strengths ˈstreŋ(k)ths, ˈstren(t)ths, ˈstreŋks\
• Etymology: Middle English strengthe, from Old English strengthu; akin to Old High German strengi strong — more at strong
• Date: before 12th century

1 : the quality or state of being strong : capacity for exertion or endurance
2 : power to resist force : solidity, toughness
3 : power of resisting attack : impregnability
5 a : degree of potency of effect or of concentration strengths> b : intensity of light, color, sound, or odor c : vigor of expression
7 : one regarded as embodying or affording force or firmness : support strength>
9 : basis —used in the phrase on the strength of

synonyms see power

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/strength

Strength is a quality of character. One I've never really chosen to use to describe myself. But lately, when things have been hard, I've done a lot of thinking about Strength. What defines a person's strength? Is it their ability to hide emotion? Certainly not... That isn't strength, that's cowardice. So, it's dealing with emotions. Dealing with the hard moments in a long life. Strength is coping and maintaining and admitting when it's hard. Strength keeps someone from going backwards. Hopefully, Strength keeps someone from simply standing still as well.

Every day my heart hurts right now. I'm not saying my world is falling apart or all is wrong. Things in this life truly aren't that bad. But I'm a bit discouraged. I was talking to a friend earlier tonight and they way my mind wandered I was thinking that I'm really holding up ok a majority of the time. And that's good enough. Right? I'm really doing well, except for those few times when I'm driving in my car coming home from work, or eating a quiet lunch, or trying to fall asleep late at night.

What about those moments? The times when I can almost swear I feel my heart breaking. When it would be easier to curl up in a ball under my covers and sleep the day away. Where is the strength when I'm falling apart?

When I turn pull into my driveway, get out of my car, and take time to talk to the people I care about. When I put my dishes in the sink and walk out the door to join my friends. When I close my eyes and pray and sleep without a knot in my chest.

There is my strength in those moments. The choices to move. To move forward and not stand still. To release the hurt to God and let him handle it.

Let's be honest. My strength isn't my own. I'd have no strength without the God I call my father. Thank you, Lord, for taking care of me and giving me strength when I feel empty and tired and crushed.

But thank you, also, to the amazing people I have the blessing of calling my friends. I wouldn't be who I am without you, and I wouldn't be able to keep going without your friendship.

Strength isn't just making it through the day, but dealing with the pain.

Strength isn't just 90% of the time, but winning every moment.

It's not all about what the world sees when working and talking and around loved ones.

Strength is In the Quiet Moments.