Strength. It’s a word we often associate with muscles, endurance, and physical ability. But over the years—and especially during my recovery from two hip replacements—I’ve come to understand that true strength is so much more than physical.
Strength is in the courage to start over, no matter how daunting the path may seem. It’s in the determination to show up for yourself, even when progress feels slow. It’s in the resilience to keep moving forward, one small step at a time.
When I think about strength, I think of my Grandpa John. At 95, he didn’t let age define him. Driving solo from Florida to Nova Scotia wasn’t just a testament to his physical stamina; it was an act of mental grit, curiosity, and a refusal to settle. He believed in living strong—in embracing life fully, no matter the obstacles.
In “Timeless Wisdom”, one elder reflected, “Strength isn’t just about what you can carry—it’s about what you can overcome.” Grandpa John lived that truth, and it’s something I strive to embody every day.
For me, strength has taken on new meaning during my recovery journey. Nine weeks out from my first hip replacement and just six days into recovering from my second, strength has been about patience. It’s about showing kindness to myself as I rebuild. Some days, strength means accepting rest instead of pushing too hard. Other days, it’s the act of standing a little straighter or walking a little farther.
Strength is also about connection. The stories and encouragement I’ve received during this You’re Never Too Old series have reminded me of the power we gain from sharing our journeys with others. As “Lessons on Legacy” points out, “True strength lies in the lives we touch, not just the goals we reach.”
As I prepare to return to the mats in January 2025, I’m reminded of the lessons I’ve learned through martial arts. Life teaches us through experience, but the mats bring those lessons to life in a tangible way. Strength isn’t just in the punches or grapples—it’s in the persistence to practice, the focus to refine, and the resilience to keep coming back after failure.
This broader definition of strength—physical, mental, and emotional—has become the foundation of my Living Strong philosophy. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about embracing your challenges and using them as a platform for growth.
So, let me ask you: How do you define strength in your life?
Is it in the actions you take? The mindset you carry? The relationships you build? Take a moment to reflect and consider where your true strength lies.
Because strength isn’t about being the fastest, strongest, or most capable. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and embracing the journey—wherever it takes you.
