Kate said strong.
My first-born son was asked in an 11th Grade class, “Who is the strongest person you’ve ever met?”
His answer was simply two words, “My mom.”
I was floored when he told me that. Floored, and flattered! My first two kids went through the hard with me. The separation and the divorce. My third was young enough that he doesn’t remember much of those hard, hard days. In fact, one day he told me he had a brilliant idea that Daddy and I should live together in order for all the people he loved so much would be together under one roof.
That profound statement was spoken as we waited in a McDonald’s to-go line! I almost choked.
Michael, we tried that and it didn’t work. To which he said, “Okay.”
What constitutes strong?
I was born with a strong gene – I really didn’t know that until I needed to know it and USE IT.
I am woman…hear me roar!
I learned just how strong I was when launched into single parenthood. Of course, God was behind the scenes, I had Him tucked way behind the curtains because I was so mad at Him! Yet, He gave me grace upon grace.
Physical strength
Now, that is something I am missing these recent days. Having succumbed to some illness, I became weak. Unable to stand for long periods of time. Not able to walk a distance without sitting down to rest. And, weak is not what I want to be. The Lord and I have had some interesting conversations. I’m improving daily (Rome wasn’t built in a day, they keep telling me.) and am building up my physical strength. I’ll get there, I’m confident.
In the meantime…
My roar has changed to a faint meow! But, we’ll find a happy medium. And, I always have this fundamental, truthful principle from God’s Word…
…when I’m weak – He becomes strong. 2 Corinthians 12.10
Have you lost your strength in some area of life?
Not one of these precious lives ever had a chance to be strong.
I’m glad you’re gradually feeling stronger again. It is encouraging to know that those times when we feel weak are when God’s strength can be shown.
Lesley, me too! This one was like being smacked with a 2×4!!!
Susan, I admire your honesty, and I’m sure your children learned great lessons from going through those hard times with you! While I’ve never had to endure those kinds of “blessings,” my past 5-6 years have brought physical struggles that I never imagined. A bout with shingles left my left leg so weak that I now have to use a walker to go any distance, even in my apartment. Still, that’s such a small thing compared to the lives that others have to lead. My family is intact (Hubs went to Heaven in January 2021, but he’s still with us in important ways), my children are attentive, and I have all I need materially. God has blessed me, and I praise Him for all He’s been for me! He is truly my strength, and I wouldn’t want to try to live without Him!
You’ve endured your own “kinds of blessings.” We all do, don’t we? I know you live grateful, Glenda, and I’m grateful I can call you friend. (((xo)))
How encouraging! Susan, I’m so glad your son(s) recognized your strength. And I’m thankful God gave you the grace to be a single parent. Praying He will continue to give you grace and strength as you heal physically.
~Lisa, FMF #10
Thank you very much, Lisa. It’s only been 7 weeks but it feels like 7 months!
Never underestimate a quiet mewow. I am knew to your story but your son description speaks volumes. You are brave and your are strong and if now you need rest then hold out to the fact that it’s all part of the journey.
The Journey is having some rough spots!!!
Susan, you have been strong and continue to be strong, and for that … we all are grateful. I am glad you are feeling better and gaining strength each day. xo
Thanks Jo…
My physical part of me is getting weaker due to old age but God has through many trials grown my faith in Him along with opening my eyes to how frail I am. All that combined has given me some wisdom on how to handle things differently so that I am not left feeling worthless when I am frail. When I am weak, He is strong. Thanks God for it working that way. Blessings. Good post.
Betty, your comment has so much truth in it. Thank you.
I’m sorry that you haven’t been well – I hope your strength is restored. It’s amazing how resilient children can be – they teach us a lot, just as parents show strength and purpose through their example.
They certainly do!
I continue to pray and agree with you for total healing and a restoration of great health!
“Have you lost your strength……?” In my case it is all physical and I hate it. I just don’t believe that one has to suffer just because they are aging. I’m doing all I can to get better and looking forward to the day when that has materialized.
Great writing as always, my friend. Love you!
Without the strength of the Lord, I’d have been wiped out years ago. He keeps me going everyday.
Amen, sistah.