Striving Through Strife

Two words that have been weighing on me this past week are "strive" and "strife." There have been a few situations in my life lately that could be considered as "strife." When faced with those situations (difficult situations with co-workers, a bad situation at work, a personal situation, and a constant battle with myself), I had to ask myself if I wanted to be a person who stumbles through life in strife and negativity or someone who strives to rise above the bad situations and negative people to become a better me. For me, the answer is obvious. I have always been a person determined to become better from the circumstances that I find myself facing. Unfortunately, I do allow myself a good bit of bitching wallowing before I get stronger and better. This is the habit I must break. I. Must. Strive. Always.

Strive:
(as defined by dictionary.com)

1. Make great efforts to achieve or obtain something.

2. Struggle or fight vigorously: "scholars must strive against bias"
(as defined by merriam-webster.com)
1. to devote serious effort or energy : endeavor <strive to finish a project>.
2. to struggle in opposition : contend.

Strife:
(as defined by dictionary.com)
Angry or bitter disagreement over fundamental issues; conflict.  
(as defined by merriam-webster.com)
a : bitter sometimes violent conflict or dissension <political strife>
b : an act of contention : fight, struggle ...

"It is better to live in peace than in bitterness and strife” Confucious

“When good people have a falling out, only one of them may be at fault at first; but if the strife continues long, usually both become guilty.” Thomas Fuller

"He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat." (Proverbs 28:25)