Fluid, Soft, Yielding . . .

An after work drive to the river - Sparrevohn, Alaska June 2024

A young father recently shared with me anxiety over his son's sensitive spirit. He expressed concern that he's not adequately equipped to contend with the harsh realities of the world outside their home. Shortly after our conversation, I came across this quote. 

"Water is fluid, soft and yielding. But water will wear away rock, which is rigid and cannot yield. As a rule, whatever is fluid, soft and yielding will overcome whatever is rigid and hard. This is another paradox: What is soft is strong."                                          Philosopher - Lao Tzu

This resonates. I fly to remote locations where I work here in Alaska. I am far from the comforts of my home, the familiarity of my family and the gentle companionship of my friends. There are times the pressures require a strength I sometimes wonder how I'll muster. But honestly, I can maintain true to my softer nature in the midst of mandates and  demands.