It is so hard for me to think about my strengths for some reason. I know that I'm a good friend...a great listener, but strength? Not so sure. So.... I asked my husband what he thought my greatest strength was.
He said, "Your beauty and your personality." Uh... thanks? Don't see the beauty, but...
Then he said (and this one I can get behind), "One of your main strenghts is that you are always so positive. My mother was the world's biggest pesimist and I have fought against that my whole life."
And... it's true. I am a very positive person. Always looking at the glass half-full. Anything that happens, I'm always looking for a way to put a positive spin on it. Complaining never helps anything!
In 1996, we were living in Raleigh, North Carolina, when Hurricane Fran came through. We were without power for over a week. Early September so it was still hot (hey, at least we still had water, which was a blessing...no hot water, but it was hot enough that the cold water felt great). My oldest daughter (16 at the time) was complaining about how miserably hot it was. I suggested that we think of it as an adventure...kinda like we were living in Little House on the Prairie Days.
She put her hand on her hips and said, "Mama, do you always have to be so cheerful about EVERYTHING?"
Why... yes. Yes, I do.
I can attest to that ... and I'm grateful for it. :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful strength to have!
ReplyDeleteI appreciate that in you, too. It's helped more than a few times. :0)
ReplyDeleteThat is a funny story about your daughter. I wish I had your strength.
ReplyDeleteI am laughing so hard at this. The teenager's response to relentless cheerfulness: "Mommmmmm!" But actually, that really is a wonderful personal strength.
ReplyDeletePositivism is a great strength, but so is listening and being a friend. Don't underestimate how much those things matter to other people.
ReplyDeleteI also found it hard to think of my strengths this week! I love what your husband said, and I admire that ability. I have anxiety, so my brain is wired to always see the negative - even when it's not real. I work hard to look for joy and good moments rather than living in the fear, and it's not easy. I have so much admiration for those who can just see good around them! That is not a small thing! And that story is hilarious!
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ReplyDeleteI also try to be optimistic. It's very easy to do the opposite at the moment.
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