'strong' women

Is it a crime to be a 'strong' woman?
As with everything, there must be a difference, either subtle or stark, to colour the world. Some women always play the role of a lady in distress. Some others are like wallpaper, that they just blend in with everything surrounding them. There are probably a whole lot in between, when they adjust to the conditions and react accordingly i.e. lady in distress or quiet enjoyment of their situation.
Then, there are the few who are labelled 'strong' women.
Women who speak up, confront, and are aggressive (by male standards). I have been labelled such, not by one person, but by most who have met me.
The saddest thing is, no one knows just how broken up my spirit is.
I am sure, the few strong women out there, know what I am talking about.
We get the job done.
We have energy levels that's amazing for a female.
We would take an axe to a rotten tree.
We never give any impression that we feel.
Empathy comes easily, yet not seen readily.

When people look on, they think, ah she can fend for herself.
Which is usually true.

BUT very few people would stop to think about what goes on inside her.
That inside is a constant battle - between being harsh, and still having the need to be held - to be pacified, to be tended to.
It's almost a crime that when you are such a woman, people think you don't have an emotional need. It is assumed that you are able to stand alone all the time.

When days become years, the emptiness gets too much, it begins to eat you up from inside.
But as survivors, these women will find coping skills to manage this situation for as long as they can.

Bottom line is, they will cope and survive.
Bottom line also is, but it doesn't mean they are really ok.