Strength is often celebrated, especially in a society that values resilience and the ability to endure hardships. The quote by Zandashé L’orelia Brown encapsulates an often overlooked perspective on this celebration of strength. For many, being strong is not a choice but a necessity, born out of circumstances that demand resilience. But what happens when the burden of strength becomes too heavy to bear?
The Exhaustion of Strength
Being strong can be exhausting. It’s a weight that many carry without recognition of the toll it takes on their mental and physical health. The constant need to be resilient can lead to burnout, leaving individuals feeling drained and unsupported. This exhaustion is a silent struggle, often hidden behind the façade of strength.
The Need for Support and Softness
While we champion strength, it’s equally important to acknowledge the need for support and softness. People who have had to be strong for prolonged periods deserve a safe space to rest and explore their softer sides. This is not about diminishing the value of strength but about recognizing the human need for balance. Softness, ease, and the feeling of being among kin can provide much-needed relief and healing.
Reimagining Support
In our efforts to champion resilience, we must also create environments where those who have been strong can find respite. This means celebrating not just their strength but also their vulnerability. Providing support involves more than just acknowledging their hardships; it requires creating spaces where they can let go of their burdens, even if temporarily, to rejuvenate their spirits.
A Call to Action
Let’s inspire a shift in perspective. As we encourage people to be strong, let’s also advocate for their right to be soft and supported. Strength should not be an endless requirement but a temporary measure to navigate challenges. By recognizing and promoting the importance of rest and softness, we can help individuals achieve a more balanced and healthy life.
Strength is admirable and necessary, but it should not be a perpetual state. Acknowledging the exhaustion that comes with constant resilience allows us to better support those who need a break. Let’s celebrate strength while also championing the need for softness, support, and ease. In doing so, we create a more compassionate and balanced society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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