Courage and Strength -where do you find them?

[scissorhands]

While feeding the sparrows and having my soy latte and muffin this morning I couldnt help but wonder where have all the examples of bravery, courage and strength gone.

During the ACC campaign I was filled with a sense of pride and kinship toward those willing to take up battle against the white devil slavemaster.

I now have a personal demon or dragon to slay..... and the weapon that I will need will be strength of purpose and courage. When I cast about and view others with problems, it seems to me that strength and courage is also needed, for themselves too.

The Chinese talk of accumulating chi within the tan tien, in the west we say 'having the guts' or of being 'gutless'.

What is the secret? If say someone was diagnosed with cancer for example, rather than finding information (which is another kettle of fish) how does that someone find the strength to fight off the enemy.

So my question is: if strength and courage lie in the solar plexus, can this force be increased?

[onearmedbandit]

When you need it, you will find it. I am a chronic pain sufferer, 24hrs a day 7 days a week, and after my accident at xmas it's only started getting worse. I take no medication to combat the pain, otherwise I'd still be popping 35 pills a day. Instead I find the strength within me to, I was going to say 'fight my enemy' but that's wrong. What I do is find the strength to give up the fight, to release my mind from the physical pain, to let the pain flush over me and do it's thing.

When you're faced with a situation that you can't back out of or run away from, you will find the courage and strength you need. Until then, you will have no idea of how you can cope.

[edit] Oh yeah, in my case, when you let your body get attacked with incredible pain and just ride the wave, the feeling, the rush, it's the most amazing feeling ever. Almost out of body, the pain takes over everything but you switch everything off. It's hard to explain I suppose.

[Okey Dokey]

I find courage in my brain more than my solar plexus. To have knowledge can give confidence and strength. When spirits flag I can review my information and remind myself I am correct and doing the best thing.

Not sure if this helps or not, but I hope it does :) I wish you well in your fight.

[sugilite]

Work out the most important things in your life that you hold dear. Focus and draw strength from those. Fear and worry are your enemy, succumb to those and you will leak personal energy from your solar plexus like a sieve. When you feel that happening, focus on your breath taking yourself back to your most basic functions, then move your focus on the end goal you want to achieve and the steps needed to get there, even if it is the next small step. A Hope Indian elder once said to me, "Anthony, worrying is praying for what you don't want".

I'm not saying banishing worry and anxiety is easy, but you are truly the master of your own destiny when you focus on what you do have power over, rather than what you perceive you do not.

Onwards and upwards you go :Punk:

[Headbanger]

I keep mine in my pants.

Every so often I reach down to check its still there.

[ynot slow]

Each is different,my case,after a few tests etc,and not knowing,my brother said to me "what if it's cancer,kidney,liver problems"my reply "what if,not much I can do",and basically that's been my mantra.
Sure it was cancer but could've been kidney and the wait for donor etc to me is worse,sure saw a heap of people with me at radiation,ya looka around and think,fark they're worse than me(well some maybe not but near enough),then realise you've been through testing,diagnosis and surgery,now on the homeward leg with chemo and radiation.Saw many ladies who lost hair due to treatment and all cheerful,that gives you inspiration.

Gotta say my idea was to keep positive(even when people naively said chemo,hell you'll feel crook every 1 week out of 4 or similar)and still is,7 years later and having half a lung removed last year to go with original cancer.

Each time on the bike on a fine day I think to myself aint life farkin great,should've been dead 7yrs ago but for great surgeon and family who finally got to me to see my gp.

[Suntoucher]

Wanted for questioning:

216651

Turns out you had it inside you all along.

Also been told the Wizard of Australia will give you it.

[marie_speeds]

Awww there's a lot of Bromance going on here.....:love:

[Paul in NZ]

Mate - if it was as simple as finding the place that sells courage and strength then it wouldnt be a big deal eh? Courage is like love; it must have hope to nourish it. ~ Napoleon Bonaparte ~

Stick your head down and plug away one step at a time - its the only way

[scissorhands]

Judy Garland (Dorothy): Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore.

Margaret Hamilton (Wicked Witch of the West): I'll get you my pretty...and your little dog too!

Ray Bolger (Scarecrow): I haven't got a brain... only straw.
Judy Garland (Dorothy): How can you talk if you haven't got a brain?
Ray Bolger (Scarecrow): I don't know... But some people without brains do an awful lot of talking... don't they?
Judy Garland (Dorothy): Yes, I guess you're right.

Judy Garland (Dorothy): Lions, and tigers, and bears! Oh, my!

[marie_speeds]

You could always ask Jack, Jim, Johnny or their mate Sam Bucca. They'll know..... they always know...

But judging by your last post sounds like you may have already :drinkup:

[Genie]

We are who we are, we are all put together differently so what works for one will not neccesarily work for another. We all handle things differently and ae our inner strength is there and we 'use' it with out actually being aware that we have 'it'.

Not that I'm overly a big believer but I've always gone by the saying...God doesn't give us more than we can handle...that has helped me find 'something' to get through some mighty big shit over the years.

You're stronger than you think...you already have in you what you need and when you need 'it', 'it' will be there.

[Paul in NZ]

We are who we are, we are all put together differently so what works for one will not neccesarily work for another. We all handle things differently and ae our inner strength is there and we 'use' it with out actually being aware that we have 'it'.

Not that I'm overly a big believer but I've always gone by the saying...God doesn't give us more than we can handle...that has helped me find 'something' to get through some mighty big shit over the years.

You're stronger than you think...you already have in you what you need and when you need 'it', 'it' will be there.

Yup - thats about it, coated in sugar but about it....

btw - let me know if I can help ya out - courage is often tied up with friends eh?

[Edbear]

Yup - thats about it, coated in sugar but about it....

btw - let me know if I can help ya out - courage is often tied up with friends eh?

We don't know how strong we are until we face the odds. I've nearly died five times, (so far...:innocent:), according to the Docs I'm not supposed to be alive. While friends and family have expressed amazement that I could be so cheerful and positive while in that situation, they needed to understand that a large part if it was their care, their concern and their unstinting support.

Being near death with the associated pain and sickness, not knowing if you will pull through, is a lonely place to be and being able to focus on those around you is a genuine life-saver. In ICU my family and friends were a constant and at night when they had to leave I counted on the closeness of the nurses to stay conscious and positive - they gave me strength and comfort.

For me, I couldn't quit, couldn't succumb because I didn't want to bereave my family, I fought to stay alive for them. Did it work? Would I have survived regardless? I don't really know, but I gained the strength to endure from those around me and, for me, from my faith.

[Genestho]

I've witnessed many feats of courage and strength over the last few years to last a lifetime.

I admire people from so many places, so many walks of life - as most have faced - in different forms - trauma, loss and adversity, not one would've thought they'd have had it in them to do what they do, or have done.

For some, it takes courage and brute strength - just to live.

If you have hope, faith, and a goal, the rest will flow naturally.

I have been called stubborn more than once, I prefer to never give in, no matter what.

I think you'd be suprised what you have inside when pushed to the edge.

[marie_speeds]

For some, it takes courage and brute strength - just to live.

I have to agree there! But seriously what most people see as courage in others is nothing but a mask or an act that the person is putting on. Often it is to hide the hurt and pain that they are feeling inside. For some just the sheer act of getting out of bed every morning is an act of courage. There are so many times in all of our lives where we just want to curl up and hide under the sheets and just stay there, but the reality is that we have to "put on a brave face" and face the world. Everyone has it in them when it's necessary. That fight or flight instinct in all of us is very strong. Strength comes from knowing which one to act on when the situation calls for it.....

Note to self: In odd mood tonight, where did that come from?

[Paul in NZ]

Yeah - but its different or everyone. Some face a major drama that needs instant heroics and some face a lesser but soul sapping fight every day....

Point is - we all face our waterloo sooner or later....

The measure of us as people is determined, not by our victory but by the quality of the fight..

[tamarillo]

Each will have their own - but since we seem to be sharing in a helpful mode.

Another with serious chronic pain... Meditation made my difference. The trick for me is to accept and allow what is and know that suffering is what is meant and okay.

Been through two divorces too - and it ain't easy BUT it is easier sensing it is okay and suffering is ok and not be taken out of proportion (which is always in at the time).

That feeling you get in a really good ride - take that and multiply it for a good sit (meditation). It is about being here, now, dismissing deluded ego, and knowing what is real and accepting it.

And it will never be okay all the time - it ain't that easy.

A quote for you I like (especially second part):

' I love you. Not like they told you love is, and I didn't know this either, but love don't make things nice - it ruins everything. It breaks your heart. It makes things a mess.

We aren't here to make things perfect. The snowflakes are perfect. The stars are perfect. Not us. Not us! We are here to ruin ourselves and to break our hearts and love the wrong people and *die*. '

good luck mate, tim

[ynot slow]

Another thought is when you tell friends and family you're up shit creek,the thing which gives you strength is the pain you see in their eyes,their fear that you're facing death,and the fact you as victim feel helpless for causing their angst gives impetus to win.

I still feel guilty for putting my family through who knows what pain.That and the fact I had to watch the start of rugby world cup'03(lost again ah well ),and my birthday in hospital were bummers lol.

[Big Dave]

There's always a best thing to do. You man up and get it done.

[schrodingers cat]

So my question is: if strength and courage lie in the solar plexus, can this force be increased?

Of course it can silly! Apply alcohol internally...

[DarkLord]

I just find you have to look at the options. With some things there is no way out but through. Sure, you can take the easy way out and back down from what you are facing etc, but ultimately you are only going to do yourself a disservice and that regret will catch up with you eventually.

Unfortunately with the society we currently live in, there is little room for the kind of character that encourages people to face problems and become stronger through them as everything is so shallow and provides immediate solutions for every single issue.

[scissorhands]

Thanks to all the heart felt replies and reaching hands, especially a big respect to those suffering real pain and severe hardships.

I have just been diagnosed with aspergers at age 47. I have had it all my life to a lesser degree, and now need to take stock and re-evaluate my current lifestyle.

I need to make the best with what I've got, and that will basicly mean preserving my neurological function as I begin to age. Having aspergers, I have self medicated all my life, unknowing of why I have felt so different around my family and others.

The courage and strength is for now being able to acknowledge my disability, and to move through life without any dietary and booze crutches. To live with the reality of how it is for me, rather than eating comfort foods, or taking something to forget my inability to relate to 'normal' people.

Its actually a major shocker all round really. Many people around me (in Grey Lynn) self medicate their neurological problems, with comfort food, alcohol and drugs.

I now need to live a sparseness of oral delights, or face the mediocrity and reduction in quality of life, by staying numbed down:shutup:

Degenerated aristocracy being what it is, I will also be battling generational traits passed down to me by my parents and before them. The sins of the father are visited upon the son. Fuck

Sorry, but some Kb'ers will be undiagnosed asperger sufferers too. Its called the engineers disorder.

[candor]

Fearlessness comes from dumbing down - stop doing any "what iffing" about your preferred course of action (or situation). Assume no bad consequences might result, only the desired vision as your intent is right and sure. Safety valves off and away.

Engineers...???

[marie_speeds]

Thanks to all the heart felt replies and reaching hands, especially a big respect to those suffering real pain and severe hardships.

I have just been diagnosed with aspergers at age 47. I have had it all my life to a lesser degree, and now need to take stock and re-evaluate my current lifestyle.

I need to make the best with what I've got, and that will basicly mean preserving my neurological function as I begin to age. Having aspergers, I have self medicated all my life, unknowing of why I have felt so different around my family and others.

The courage and strength is for now being able to acknowledge my disability, and to move through life without any dietary and booze crutches. To live with the reality of how it is for me, rather than eating comfort foods, or taking something to forget my inability to relate to 'normal' people.

Its actually a major shocker all round really. Many people around me (in Grey Lynn) self medicate their neurological problems, with comfort food, alcohol and drugs.

I now need to live a sparseness of oral delights, or face the mediocrity and reduction in quality of life, by staying numbed down:shutup:

Degenerated aristocracy being what it is, I will also be battling generational traits passed down to me by my parents and before them. The sins of the father are visited upon the son. Fuck

Sorry, but some Kb'ers will be undiagnosed asperger sufferers too. Its called the engineers disorder.

Hey that's not so bad.... For someone with aspergers which comes under the category of ASD and PDD, you're doing very good. The very fact that you are on this forum participating in "social interaction" via the threads and postings is very very good! Many with Aspergers shy away from social interactions all together. So in my opinion it is really great that you are here!:yes:

[Edbear]

Hey that's not so bad.... For someone with aspergers which comes under the category of ASD and PDD, you're doing very good. The very fact that you are on this forum participating in "social interaction" via the threads and postings is very very good! Many with Aspergers shy away from social interactions all together. So in my opinion it is really great that you are here!:yes:

Wot she sed! Knowledge here will be the best thing for you and finally having some answers must be a relief even if disappointed at being diagnosed as such.

Being able to be open about it is also to be commended and if you work with the medics in a positive way you'll gain ability to cope and counter the illness. Make mental notes of each day you learn something helpful and each positive step you take, each time you do better than the last incident caused by the illness.

Patience with yourself and the understanding of those around you will help keep you positive and progressing.

[marie_speeds]

Now that you have a diagnosis and given my current area of study/research, do you want to be my guinea pig er um I meant participate for research purposes. I promise to be gentle.... :innocent:






And if i type my evi laugh real small hahahaha maybe he won't notice

[Genestho]

How strange, bumped into a girlfriend today, whose son has been diagnosed with suspected aspergers, I say suspected as he's had a traumatic event that may have slowed typical child development.
I went home and googled up about it, and then found this which I printed off to give to my girlfriend. Then I read your post SH..

http://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/file/Documents/2010-Documents/asnz-list-asperger-s-sites-services-nationwide.pdf

Some of the contacts etc may be of some help on your journey? Assuming of course you don't already have loads of info already....

[John_H]

While feeding the sparrows and having my soy latte and muffin this morning I couldnt help but wonder where have all the examples of bravery, courage and strength gone.

During the ACC campaign I was filled with a sense of pride and kinship toward those willing to take up battle against the white devil slavemaster.

I now have a personal demon or dragon to slay..... and the weapon that I will need will be strength of purpose and courage. When I cast about and view others with problems, it seems to me that strength and courage is also needed, for themselves too.

The Chinese talk of accumulating chi within the tan tien, in the west we say 'having the guts' or of being 'gutless'.

What is the secret? If say someone was diagnosed with cancer for example, rather than finding information (which is another kettle of fish) how does that someone find the strength to fight off the enemy.

So my question is: if strength and courage lie in the solar plexus, can this force be increased?

Are you a vegan?

[yungatart]

Start taking Magnesium supplements. Go to a reputable health food shop and get some good ones.
I work with young people with ASD, it seems to help them hugely.
Good luck on your journey.
Aspergers is not so bad...it could have been a much worse diagnosis!

[scissorhands]

Are you a vegan?

No I'm not, I think I eat quite well. And I have always had aspergers from childhood.

I'm reading like a demon re Aspergers, and have attended Autism NZ meetings. I have even met a couple of attractive aspie girls now, so its not all bad:shifty:

Being higher functioning I should consider myself lucky, I met many at a meeting who are not so lucky. Only being aware now around 3 weeks, its been like a bomb going off. Thanks to the messages of support and advice


There is a lot of finger pointing going around, toward vaccines, parental drinking or drugging etc being the cause of autism disorders.

What I would guesstimate from observing most of the aspies at the meeting, is that skinny white children or males are the high risk group. Descendants of degenerated aristocracy will be most susceptible.

[scissorhands]

How strange, bumped into a girlfriend today, whose son has been diagnosed with suspected aspergers, I say suspected as he's had a traumatic event that may have slowed typical child development.
I went home and googled up about it, and then found this which I printed off to give to my girlfriend. Then I read your post SH..

http://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/file/Documents/2010-Documents/asnz-list-asperger-s-sites-services-nationwide.pdf

Some of the contacts etc may be of some help on your journey? Assuming of course you don't already have loads of info already....

Thanks I have lots of info atm. 'Wrong Planet' is also a very good site.

A lot of males tinkering away on their projects in their workshops, with poor social skills, avoiding relationships, many will be undiagnosed aspies! As well as that, aspies are on the increase. Maybe because of diagnosis improvements, maybe because of health deterioration of most people.

My guess is that degenerated aristocracy is now the plight of many, now of all the financial classes including the poor.

Hell, not only the (usually wealthy) descendants with recessive genes, but generations on government benefits, may be damaging their gene code further, and creating neurological impairments for their offspring

The devil will find work for idle hands to do?