Grace
One of the most difficult words to describe but possibly one of the most beautiful words to visualize and conjure to life. Grace is not a female or feminine monopoly, masculine grace or grace in men is an equally attractive force.
While grace in younger ages may have to do with outward beauty and actions, grace in the middle ages definitely means grace in words and in attitude. It is akin to moonlight shimmering in the water, quiet yet powerful in its influence, just that one quality that lifts the ordinary to the extraordinary. It is present in the non-reactionary, in acceptance, in calm and most in wisdom. It is most powerful in freedom — ability to be free and to free others, and in the release of expectations — of yourself and others.
Embodied in the self -assured, self-confident yet assuring others of the same. Expressed in the male through protectiveness without possessiveness, leading without sycophancy, supporting unconditionally, and creating opportunities for others and self. Expressed in the female through self-respect, putting own desires as equal firsts, leading as different but equals, and creating opportunities for self and others. Each gender expresses grace differently and cannot be compared or competed with, yet both together complete the circle of grace.
Grace is not the same as being passive, avoiding conflicts or being trodden on — it is just acknowledging your own importance without taking away another’s. It is knowing that tolerance is necessary to win over issues and that giving in to another’s point of view does not diminish your self-worth or make you less wise. Grace is also knowing when to surrender and when to pick up the issue again in more propitious times.
For neither can the moon look beautiful without the shimmer of the moving water, nor can the water look magical without the reflection of moonlight.
