Surprising Glimpses

“I hope you know it’s okay if your strength looks a little different in this season.” ~ Morgan Harper Nichols

I’d like to share a story with you that happened yesterday. I will let you know in advance that this story is vulnerable, a little silly, and unnecessarily dramatic. But I’m hoping that someone out there in the universe can relate!

Yesterday, my schedule was packed with classes to teach and meetings to attend. But there was one hour when I didn’t have anything going on. All day I promised myself I would pick up Chipotle to enjoy during that hour. Multitasking while teaching, I placed my pick-up order and planned to leave right after my class to grab my food. Tired and, at this point hangry, I got into my car and plugged the Chipotle address into my GPS. Shocked and dismayed, I realized that I had placed the order for just about the furthest Chipotle from me in the city. I wouldn’t be able to pick it up and drive back in time for my next meeting. I slowly exited my car, walked back into my office, laid on the floor, and cried. (Remember, I warned you this story would be overdramatic.)

This unexpected, yet perhaps needed release of emotion lasted a little longer than it probably should have. Finally, as I layed on that floor, staring at my multi-colored rug, I said to myself out loud, “Get up and get in the shower.” And I did just that. It may seem small, simple, or even silly, but in my season right now, this action looked like strength. 

It’s okay if strength shows up in ways you don’t expect too. The key is to notice when it is strength and name it for what it is. Remaining patient when a student is pushing your last nerve, taking the time to eat your lunch, or responding to that email. You are strong, my friend, even on days when you don’t feel like it. Even on days when it feels vulnerable, a little silly, or unnecessarily dramatic. We are all walking a journey. Be gracious with yourself and keep your eyes open to the surprising glimpses of strength around you.