Strong Woman

A short story!

They told me to be strong.

However, I’ve never been able to figure out how or when I should be strong. I never really had to make decisions on my own because I was always supported and surrounded by my family. They were always there for me.

Exactly four days later, my baby cousin got admitted in a hospital and I went to the neonatal ward during that time.

What I saw there gave me an insight into what a “Strong Woman” was.

I noticed women with various emotions. They are all about the same age. But everyone has a unique story to share.

One was surrounded by family.

Another woman and her 4-year-old child were by themselves. I smiled at her, but that only made a temporary positive impact on her. Perhaps she was by herself, or perhaps her loved ones were outside. But I knew for a fact that she was upset about something.

I observed another mother with two kids. She was a teacher who was reviewing answer papers in the hospital while her sick child was sleeping. I am unaware of her life history. But I am aware of her independence and her courage in facing life.

I came upon another mother of a five-year-old child. She has their family members around. Though she appeared to be strong on the outside, I could feel her burning inside.

Each of the women I met at the hospital has a different tale to tell. Everyone passes through different stages of life.

I realized, you won’t constantly be surrounded by your loved ones and eventually you have to be strong by yourself. Yes, relatives will be there, but they may not always be with you. There are situations that should be handled alone without fear. Life has to go on anyways.

Dedicating this to all the lovely strong women out there who are alone/together, dependent/independent. May the difficulties you are experiencing today help you to become a better person. ☺️