During my recent adventure with Hart and Soul Retreat in Bali, I was introduced to a poem that deeply resonated with me. It speaks volumes about the nuances of strength and courage in our lives.

The fact that we are always told to be strong — strong as women, strong in business, strong as mothers, strong in grief, strong through birth, strong through menopause, generally just strong through life. I loved how this gave us insight into how courage can help us through to another more vulnerable way that might in the end be better for us.

I hope you enjoy.

It takes strength to be firm.

It takes courage to be gentle.

It takes strength to stand guard,

It takes courage to let down your guard.

It takes strength to conquer,

It takes courage to surrender.

It takes strength to be certain,

It takes courage to have doubts.

It takes strength to fit in,

It takes courage to stand out.

It takes strength to share a friend’s pain,

It takes courage to feel your own pain.

It takes strength to hide feelings.

It takes courage to show them.

It takes strength to endure abuse,

It takes courage to stop it.

It takes strength to stand alone,

It takes courage to lean on another.

It takes strength to love,

It takes courage to be loved.

It takes strength to survive,

It takes courage to live.

By David L. Griffith, Writer/Poet.

Throughout the retreat, I found myself reflecting on moments when both strength and courage were essential. Arriving at the retreat in Bali and walking into the Welcome Circle, when you don’t know anyone and you are stepping into the unknown, can be very daunting. It took courage to be there, to open yourself up to new experiences and connections.

During our visit to the Healer, I heard things that were challenging to hear. She spoke about relationships, death and health, stirring up a lot of my grief from the losses I’ve experienced over the last 5 years. However, it took courage to listen, courage to process and courage to continue working through the difficult topics.

Trying new things also required courage. From participating in ceremonies to engaging in conversations with strangers, each experience pushed me out of my comfort zone. While uncomfortable, I believe these moments of courage helped me grow and gain a deeper understanding of humanity.

Witnessing the courage of other women at the retreat was also inspiring. From facing past traumatic experiences to opening up about relationships, each woman demonstrated bravery in vulnerability.

Reflecting on these experiences, I’m reminded of the courageous people in my life who face challenges with grace and resilience.

Acknowledging their courage and offering support is essential, as it helps us all be even more courageous and strong.

Have a think about your own experiences of strength and courage, and your friends and family around you. I think it is beautiful to acknowledge these moments and I am forever grateful that we are part of this wonderful journey called life.

Big love,

Aisha xox