What Make's Someone Tough

I was asked today what makes someone tough and it got me thinking

I was asked today, “What makes someone ‘Tough?”

My initial thought was the fact that I can beat you up.

That isn’t what makes someone tough, 

That’s ego rearing it’s head.

Once I got over myself I gave it more thought.

This is what I came up with, 

Although less poetic in my head.

What being tough means to me,

Is more than strength or athletic ability.

Toughness is measured not in your skill set,

But how you’d overcome when your match is met.

Perseverance to get you past that wall,

That extra push to catch the ball.

That moment when you dig deep inside,

To show them no matter what,

 You’ll leave with pride.

When you’re two rounds down in the championship fight,

And you come out swinging with all your might.

Win, lose or draw you always try your best

Heart pounding it’s way through your chest.

That’s what makes you tough,

Not giving up when things are rough,

Live today to fight tomorrow…

That’s time I’d choose not to borrow.

Special thanks to MMA Coach Lanik.

Reviews

[Priscilla Sayers]

Nicely done:) Being tough to me is a whole other ball game. But, I call it being a "Soldier". You did a great job here. Love it!

[That_Guy]

I can soldier up if the situation dictates it. thank you :)

[Priscilla Sayers]

I know you can. You already know what it takes, I just have a lot more years on ya!lol.

[That_Guy]

I'm trying to catch up

[Priscilla Sayers]

Don't try too hard you may pull a brain muscle:)
jk....
Love you for it. I would not want you to take my road though. If you ever need it to go smoother I can surely help with that. Hind sight is 20/20 dear man:)

[That_Guy]

haha I do that far to often I'm sure.

I make my own path but I'm sure at times it looks familiar to some. I appreciate it :)

[Priscilla Sayers]

Always.
XX
P
~Big Squeeze~

[Lilith]

This is quite moving.

[That_Guy]

Thank You

[Otsana]

These lines say it all in my opinion

"Toughness is measured not in your skill set,
But how you’d overcome when your match is met."

Everyone aught to know that no matter how good they are there is always someone who could be better, we all meet our match one day. I think as you say above, the best way to deal with a situation like that is to know how to deal with it. Win or lose, people should know how to win with dignity and lose with it too. Very true poem, nice work!

[That_Guy]

Thank you so much for this review. I agree wholeheartedly. Everything in life presents a learning experience, grow from it.

[Kaylor Mason]

This is very, very true. When I was younger I did a little martial arts here and there, and I remember the victory of knowing I remained standing at the end of a match and didn't quit; no matter who won, that's what counts in the human spirit--that's the real victory, ya know?

[mariah]

good job! i love how you explained that being strong has NOTHING to do with physical strength, but mental and emotional endurance. nice job,definatly worth reading! :)

[Diane]

I love it when you don't give up when it gets rough.. :) lol

[Yellow Butterfly]

We are born into this life 'tough' from the minute we take our first breath we kick and scream. Born into a world with opportunities filled with hope and dreams. Onnwards and upwards we start our journey through life. Fighting our way through so much troubles and strifes. Life is definitely a learning curve, one that's worth fighting for, a life well deserved.

If I was asked 'What makes someone tough?'
I'd say...... LIFE!

Thanks for sharing this wonderful piece.....

[Roe]

Cool write.... Made me think what makes a person tough.

[Angelic Surrender]

This is great :) I like it a lot. I think it's the perfect way to be tough.