Strength
written by: Kathleen Chamberlin
I watched the man stagger under the weight of the clean and jerk
Trying to prove his strength
He and those who pull trucks or airplanes
Know nothing about strength, I thought,
Nothing at all.
Strength cannot be measured by weights on a bar.
Strength exists in actions large and small,
Gestures of kindness in the face of brutality,
Self-discipline in the rabid chaos of hateful acts,
Self-sacrifice to ensure the well-being of others,
Courage to speak the truth in measured tones,
Holding on to hope through darkening skies,
Carrying on despite the loss and tears.
This is strength.
It rose up in soldiers
Rushing to face the enemy on distant shores,
The firefighter facing each fire’s ravenous flaming tongues
The officers responding to each 911 call,
Unsure of what waits inside the closed door.
They have indomitable strength,
Unbending and steadfast.
No scale exists able to measure the power and strength
Of hearts united in justice.
In defending freedom.
These are the strengths we should marvel at
These are the strengths that matter.
NOTE:
Based on the Prompt – The Weight We Carry
- Strength - May 25, 2026
- Grief’s Burden - May 13, 2024
