Have you ever thought about the meaning of “steel magnolia?” If someone calls you that, it is a high compliment. Going through trials and troubles with grace means you might be a steel magnolia. Facing harsh criticism with kindness, yet never backing down, might mean you’re a steel magnolia. Always standing your ground strongly, but with gentile ways, means you are definitely a steel magnolia.
A steel magnolia knows that life has risks that are worth taking. It’s part of their resilience and fortitude. In the movie “Steel Magnolias” Shelby says it eloquently. “I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.”
I am grateful for the steel magnolias I have known through the years. They taught me about courage, strength, assertiveness, confidence, while all the while, they were gracious and gentle.
It’s good to be known as a steel magnolia. With the passing years, the magnolia that I am has taken on more and more steel. I am grateful for being strong in the midst of turbulence. I am even more grateful that I have managed to maintain my gentle kindness through it all.
God of the Sparrow 🌱 By Kathy Manis Findley 