Where Do Power and Weakness Come From?

This morning I was lying in bed listening to a show about innocence lost due to political corruption in the name of the politicians gaining more power. Saddened by yet another example of corrupt power it really got me thinking where do my power and my weakness come from? As I continue on my journey of healing my whole self I realize that my empowerment comes from the positive side of life. This past year I have felt the most power from love, kindness, socializing, lending a helping hand, hugs and dancing the Argentine Tango! By leaving the house no matter how much I wanted to crawl back inside myself and hide. I just kept pushing forward, making new friends, making eye contact in public and having conversations, exchanging kind glances and smiles. Power also came from accepting help from others. I let go of stubbornness and started both asking for and accepting help and finally admitting I couldn't do it all myself. Everywhere I've gone in the last year I've connected with positive people and have had my batteries completely recharged by them. On the opposite end of this is a large portion of my former life for the past 15 years. My weakness came from anger, sadness, giving in to depression, overeating for comfort, being a hermit and refusing to accept or ask for help. The past 15 years have had moments of beautiful positive power where I was able to connect and briefly snap out of it, but I would eventually just slide back and give in to my weaknesses. I must now give a testimony to what I believe helped me (us) the most.  It is our Argentine Tango Community, especially our teacher Mercedes. In addition to excellent instruction, she provides a positive, inviting environment where you can let down your guard and begin to open up and heal. This is so much more than a dance; it is culture, history, art, music, etiquette, friendship, therapy, exercise, and love. Thank you to my husband for taking me on a date night. Thank you to Mercedes, and to all of the friends that I have made. Thank you to Andy and Olimpia for providing a place that we can gather weekly to Milonga and socialize. We have a lovely community here in Hampton Roads. You all have permanently changed my life and given me power to pass that change on to others, one person at a time! ©