"What Can 'Strength' Mean?" by Kelene H

            “Strength isn’t always shown by what you can hold onto, but sometimes it’s shown in what you can let go of.” Universally as well as individually, this quote can be interpreted in numerous ways. It can be seen as a simple inspirational message, meant plainly just to spread positivity and courage, or it can be seen as a sort of vengeance, conveying the message to people who have done you wrong that you’re no longer going to take their demeaning attitude. However whenever I see this quote, I see one of the most important qualities any person could be lucky enough to possess- having the courage to put yourself and your heart first and walk away from anyone who tries to tell you that you’re not worth it. Being a strong, independent, confident person is the most admirable thing anyone could ever hope to be. Strength in this particular matter can come in countless forms. However, it all comes down to deciding when enough is enough, and finally understanding that your own happiness and felicity comes before anything else. Let go of the friends that aren’t there for you when you need them and only acknowledge your existence when they need something. Choosing to finally walk away from the girl who thinks she’s too good for you and won’t give you the world, just as you’ve given her. Or finally leaving the boy who treats you like you’re nothing behind because you realize you deserve more than lies and mascara tear stained pillow cases. Have the courage to know your self value, because in this world, you are all you’ll have in the end. And at the end of the day, don’t ever feel bad for saying you deserve more than what you’re being offered. Do something your future self will thank you for, because choosing to love yourself and live life more openly and freely is the most beautiful choice you could ever make. And lastly, remember to “stay away from people who make you feel like you are hard to love”, because knowing you’re worthy of greater things doesn’t make you a bad person- and neither does walking away from people who aren’t good for you. As a good person, you are worthy of the world, and of all good things that happen to fall into place before you. Good people deserve to have good things and good fortune.