Strength with gentleness

I got part way with this background and was loving the pastel shades. The softness of the colours made me think about kindness and gentleness.

I have encountered several women who are strong women. And there's nothing wrong with that. We need strong women. But that strength wasn't tempered with gentleness. There was a stridency to their voices, a pushiness to their manner, a lack of empathy in their words and actions.

Gentleness and strength are not polar opposites. The two can - and should - go together. Strength can damage if it isn't wielded with gentleness. It can overwhelm those whom it should be used to protect and comfort.

Be strong.

But also be gentle.