Strength

We have a problem.

It seems we have built a society that applauds weakness.

People scramble to call themselves victims.

Strength is condemned as being dangerous; weakness is placed upon the pedestal of righteousness.

We have built a society in which individuals hand their self-responsibility over to others like they're passing out business cards.

We have begun to believe we are victims of our circumstances instead of masters of our responses.

We expect ideologies, social movements, and political parties to take care of us like children at daycare.

We have become entitled, thinking the world owes us happiness, fulfillment, and pleasure.

We have grown so selfish that we do not see those who have less. When someone wants our shirt, we do not also give him our coat; instead, we rob him of everything – because we are the victim.

When someone asks us to walk with him a mile, we ask him to carry our bag for two miles – because we are the weak ones.

Our problem is that we have built a society that applauds weakness, and we have forgotten all markers of strength. Instead of scrambling to call ourselves victims, we should strive to be strong.

Strength is remaining steadfast in the face of fear; not flinching when you want to cower.

Strength is remaining calm in the chaos.

It is not looking away while others retreat.

It is growing in virtue and shedding old skin like a snake.

Strength is loving the hand fate deals you for living up to a moral code.

And strength is a choice. We are not obligated to choose it. We can be weak if we so desire - we must simply deal with the consequences of that decision. However, I believe we are better off growing in strength, taking responsibility for our actions, and becoming the masters of our responses.

Finally, strength is not a destination but a trajectory. The man who lifts 35 pounds instead of 30 is on the same trajectory as the man who lifts 335 pounds instead of 330. Likewise, the man who takes responsibility for a small lie he told is on the same trajectory as the man who gives up everything to start a new life.

I urge you, be strong!

Stay steadfast in the face of fear!

Remain calm in the chaos!