A WOMEN OF STRENGTH
Do you ever feel like you have to wear a mask in your life? Acting as if nothing bothers you and keeping your head held high? Even for those of us who pride ourselves on embracing the shadow side, those of us who meditate and do yoga and reflect and journal, the women’s rights movement, sexism and some unknown factors take a huge toll on our psyche and spirit. It takes work and dedication to stop the stories, see and act differently.
Just yesterday I was in therapy working on “the ending of things.” Thoughts like I didn’t succeed, all my efforts were for … what? What do I have to show for all that I have dedicated my time and energy towards. (Yes, I have these kind of thoughts too).
As I dug deeper I noticed the limitations of my thinking were not true but instead attached to some deep conditioning I picked up about being a (Jewish) women. Instead of being real about my thoughts and feelings I noticed that there were so many ways that my conditioning actually shapes my life, my decisions and my actions. I began to see more clearly how the beliefs stop me from feeling free in every moment. I noticed how I feel burdened and think I have to do it right or make a statement and difference in everything I do. My strong determination and drive helped me ‘achieve goals” and have definitely supported me when I feel scared, (my survival technique) but at what cost? My health has suffered at times, my relationships and my life.
How does one be more vulnerable, embrace our limitations, and learn from mistakes. Is the women’s rights movement actually backfiring on me? Is it OK just to slow down, stop and reflect? Of course it is! But sometimes we forget and the drive to be STRONG becomes the dictator.
I found this poem this week and was reminded, in a simple way about what strength really is.
In Joy!
a woman of strength
a strong woman works out every day
to keep her body in shape
but a woman of strength looks deep inside
to keep her soul in shape
a strong woman isn't afraid
of anything
but a woman of strength shows courage
in the midst of her fear
a strong woman won't let anyone
get the best of her
but a woman of strength gives the best
of her to everyone
a strong woman makes mistakes
and avoids the same in the future
but a woman of strength realizes life's mistakes
can also be blessings and capitalizes on them
a strong woman walks
sure footedly
but a woman of strength knows
when to ask for help
a strong woman wears the look
of confidence on her face
but a woman of strength
wears grace
a strong woman has faith
that she is strong enough for the journey
but a woman of strength has faith
that it is in the journey that she will become strong
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