Your Strong Friend

In this conversation Mil shares how carrying the title of  “ The Strong One” can affect a person.  For some of us being strong is default to us, second nature.   You don’t know how not to be strong, even if you tried.  You’re the one who always holds it together, keeps going, and perseveres despite all.  Being “the strong one “ may not always be easy but it is absolutely necessary.  We (the world) need fighters, the ones who see the beauty in pain, hope in the moments of doubt. I want you to know that being the strong one is a beautiful thing and self care is equally important!  We don’t usually see what everyone else sees in our strength.  It’s hard to see what you carry inside, so we don’t know what it looks like, how much it is needed and appreciated.  Sometimes we see it as a weakness.  Being the strong one often gets in way, becomes heavy and tiring.  You don’t know how to go through life any other way, but no one can be “the strong one” all the time for the people in our lives. Sometimes being “the strong one” is taking care of yourself.  Not allowing your own needs and hardships to be postponed or disregarded in your efforts to support others.  We have to stop doing that!! You should make a habit of asking yourself .... I’m always looking out for others..... but who is looking out for me?  Just to help you prioritize and remind you if you use all of you up for everyone else, what are you leaving for yourself? Self care and self love is the best love!!