Stress, Struggle, and Strength

I was noticing how the words stress, struggle, and strength all start with the prefix of str-. I have no doubt that these words are connected with each other. Stress and struggle are essential preludes to developing strength.

I once read a story about a person who tried to help a caterpillar. The caterpillar was developing in its cocoon and straining to break free. The observer decided to help by cutting a slit in the cocoon. The butterfly emerged immediately, but its wings were weak and unformed. The struggle within the cocoon was an essential part of its development. In order for a butterfly to have strong wings, it needs to push the fluid from its abdomen into its wings. There are many versions of this story, but the moral is the same: Sometimes, in our desire to help someone —we actually hinder his/her development.

I was reminded of this story recently as I observe my son struggling out of his chrysalis. I am tempted to intervene, to help, to ease his struggle.

College athletes—especially football players—are put through rigorous strength and conditioning workouts. Strength training coaches prescribe the amount of weights and repetitions. The athletes are trained in the proper mechanics of lifting—so as to minimize injury. A solid strength and conditioning program increases overall strength, flexibility, and stamina.

I doubt that they ever let an athlete’s mom enter these weight rooms during a training workout! 

I keep reminding myself that God is my son’s strength training coach. God knows how much to push my son, how much weight he can lift. Under God’s supervision, my son will eventually grow stronger. A coddling mom is detrimental to the maturation process. I need to stay out of the weight room.

I can, however, provide nourishment, encouragement, and care packages.