Redefining Strength - For the Strongest Woman I Know..

A common stereotype that is repeated in conversations, jokes, and media -  women are more emotional, even weak. But in my life, I’ve seen quite the contrary.

POSTED BY: IVANA JOHN

I’ve seen strength. I’ve seen resilience. I’ve seen a woman carry the weight of a family on her shoulders without ever stumbling.

That woman is my mother.

For the past 18 years, I have only seen her cry once. That moment made me realize how much she holds in, not due to a lack of emotions, but rather because she chooses not to show them.

My father has spent the majority of my life working overseas, which meant my mother was primarily responsible for my sister and me. There must have been moments when she felt exhausted or inundated, yet she handled everything — from school to bills, illness, and even celebrations.

When people say women are “too emotional”, I think of her. And I smile. She gets annoyed when I show her affection and pretends to only acknowledge my gifts and subpar letters about her. But she keeps them all, and that is her way of showing love.

She is my home, my whole world. I couldn't bear to live a day without her.

If society sees 'being soft' means you keep loving, keep showing up, and keep going even when no one sees it, then softness is anything but weak. In my opinion, that is real strength.

I think of her during quiet moments. As time slips through my fingers, I aspire to be like my mom - silent yet strong, bold yet smart.

---

How do you define strength? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’m all ears!