People often tell me how strong I am. I hear it so often, it almost feels like a label. One I wear with quiet pride. But the truth is, even the strongest among us break sometimes. And when we do, it reveals something even more powerful than strength: connection.
When Strength Quietly Cracks
Recently, my cousin came into town. She was just minutes away from me, but I couldn’t see her, not without risking the healing progress I’ve made. It felt cruel, honestly. I’m not one to cry easily, but that day, alone in my room, the tears came. I kept them quiet. I didn’t want the kids to hear.
But they knew. Somehow, they always do.
I felt their arms wrap around me. I hadn’t even opened my eyes yet when I heard, “We felt your pain.” That’s how close we are. And then, I noticed the cats quietly filing into the room. Daichi hopped into my lap, wide-eyed. I looked around at the people and pets (who are like family) who know me best. Despite the pain, I smiled. My house was full of love. And in that moment, I felt it.
“We felt your pain.”
— My children, sensing the silent tears I tried to hide
Real Love Doesn’t Push. It Protects
We talk a lot about discipline, focus, staying the course. Here’s what we don’t say enough: you can’t do it alone. Strength is not just internal; it’s amplified by who surrounds you.
When my cousin told me she’d be visiting weeks ago, I explained I wouldn’t be able to see her. She didn’t guilt trip me. She didn’t push. She simply said, “Of course, follow what your doctor says. No problem.” And she meant it. She even shared her own story, how hard it can be when others don’t understand or respect your boundaries. She got it. And if you’ve ever struggled, you know how rare and precious that is.
Future me editing this: She came back into town later and we met, along with my sister! Even though it was over 6 months when she came back, it took 3 days for me to recover from hanging out with them. I made the right decision to refrain from hanging out the first time she came.
The People Around You Shape Your Path
So many people suffer silently. I usually do, too. But I’m sharing this now because someone out there needs to hear it:
✔ You are not alone.
✔ You deserve people who don’t just show up, but show respect.
✔ You deserve people who bring you peace, not pressure.
The right people will not make you choose between your health and their convenience. They’ll understand. They’ll support you even when they’re not in the room. That’s love. That’s strength.
Choose People Who Lift You
So, choose wisely. The people in your life matter more than you think. They either anchor you… or they unravel you.
Surround yourself with those who lift you, love you, and let you grow. And when life gets hard, as it inevitably will, remember: You don’t have to carry the weight alone.
Let the right people remind you just how strong you are.
📌 Changelog
- May 20, 2025: Article re-written to narrow focus. Changed image.
- July 22, 2017: Original article posted.
