Fortitude

One definition of the word fortitude is “strength of mind that allows one to endure pain or adversity with courage.” 

 

I am encountering more and more situations that call for greater levels of fortitude.  Mental and emotional grit are often all that is required to get through challenges.

 

Now I realize that some of you are in a really good spot.  If this defines you today, then by all means keep going – do not stop or allow complacency to creep in and block your forward progress.  Your action plan is to ride the wave of momentum that you have created. 

 

If, however, your current season of life is defined more by challenges, roadblocks and difficulties, then perhaps what you need is nothing shy of a dose of fortitude.

 

Let us never forget that some of the greatest thinkers and spiritual giants that ever walked the earth spoke about the necessity of challenging times.  One of life’s greatest ironies is that we try so fervently to avoid the challenges and pitfalls, only to realize these are the very things which forge our character.

 

As I gaze around today, I see many colleagues, clients and friends whose current journey is marked more by obstacles than anything else.  The track they are on looks more like a steeple chase than a flat, smooth surface.  While I wouldn’t wish these challenges upon anyone, I can tell you that this course is creating in many of these people a stronger spirit and an unmistakable quality that will serve them for the remainder of their lives.

 

Every one of us has been given a greater dose of strength to carry on than we often realize.  It is my hope and my prayer that you remember that today.  Embedded in the fabric of your being is the power to do amazing things even in the midst of what appears like an endless storm.

 

I will end with a quote from the Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner:  “People need trouble -- a little frustration to sharpen the spirit on, toughen it. Artists do; I don't mean you need to live in a rat hole or gutter, but you have to learn fortitude, endurance. Only vegetables are happy.”

 

Go be great, irrespective of your circumstances.

Comments

[John Gallagher]

Good stuff, Steve. Keep it comin!!