You’re Already Strong

Posted on by Victoria

Have you heard of Geena Dunne? Perhaps not. You might know her by her pseudonym, G.D. Anderson and this quote, made famous ten years ago but never more relevant for me than it is today:


“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” -G.D. Anderson


Can I get an amen from the crowd? A couple of them?


I look for signs of strength – in all forms – every day. Little boosts to push me forward. Maybe it’s a survivor’s heart? Not wanting to waste time, feeling an urgency to explore, discover, make a difference…both for myself and others. I received a sign last week when I hit a health and wellness milestone – one I never expected to achieve because, being honest, I’m not athletically gifted or inclined. Given a choice between being sporty or reclining on a sofa, I’ll take the latter every time.

Aging me pushes forward, even when I grumble about movement I…secretly…enjoy. Movement that puts oil in my joints. I’ve written before about my spin cycle commitment and the truth is, I’m in it for the recognition and rewards. 😉

I know the affirmations and high-fives are rigged. Pre-programmed distinctions that are written into software code that keeps track of how far I ride on my stationary bike. I got plenty of feedback I didn’t want – at first – but now I embrace the data about the “intensity” of each workout.


Seventeen months ago, I was seriously annoyed by the intel my bike absorbed about my performance because I felt unworthy, weak, as I struggled with each pedal stroke. I was building endurance, but in such a subtle, imperceptible way, I couldn’t see the big picture that I was painting with every grunt and grimace. My salvation? A favorite instructor who’s also in her sixth decade. Her quips and nostalgia – especially about 70’s and 80’s music keep me smiling. And moving.


The recent milestone I mentioned? Just as sweaty me unclipped and got my sorry saddle off the spin bike’s saddle, I received an on-screen message. Are you ready? Here it is:

Across many months, I’ve ridden 2000 miles or roughly thirty miles a week, with an 80% beat match to tunes I love.

I smile. Extrapolating from what G.D. Anderson said, I remember that any effort to change the world – about anything – must begin…with me.

Take the long view and keep pedaling. Give voice, Vicki, stand up. Be seen. Pedal forward with power and determination. Now. Never more important than now.

Vicki 😊

And P.S. Eagle-eyed readers might notice the typo in my ‘handle’ in the snip of above. My name is still Victoria, not “Victoris” but apparently once you’ve been assigned a moniker in spin cycle land, it’s yours. For all time. Dear hubster Paul set up the ‘tech’ for me and misspelled my name. Seventeen months ago, I was annoyed by the misspelling, greeting me before and after every workout. But now? I kinda dig it. “Victoris“. Victory-focused. Strong.

Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.

Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love.

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47 thoughts on “You’re Already Strong”

  5. First of all, here’s an amen!! I love the quote. And now, congratulations Ms. Victoris! 2000 miles is incredible. I love that you enjoy the riding/music component. I do too, but at a much lower level outside in the neighborhood with earbuds, haha. Rock on girl! That is fantastic.

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  9. Victoris you are. Hubby knows. Smart man. Amen! And Amen to your exhilarating post. I don’t know what’s going on, but again, you’re speaking to me. I too prefer the lounge chair, but have been working out lately and meeting those milestones. Feels great. Of course we’re strong already. Absolutely love the energy in your post. You go girl! 💕

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    1. I’m laughing…and rejoicing! You could really belt out some tunes, dear Michelle. Can I get some “amens” with a Freddie Mercury/Queen riff of some sort? I know you’ve got it in you! 🥰

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  13. The Victor is YOU, Vicki! I love your observation that to start changing the world, the first step must always be us. So true. Keep pedaling and charging forward!

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  14. 🎉 Congratulations Victoris! 💪 I actually like that nickname for the same reasons you mentioned- it’s a good rider name. I had to laugh out loud when I read the line about being in it for the rewards. I’m sort of the same way with running. I don’t run just so I can get a medal, but if I’m doing an organized half marathon or more I damn sure want one! 😁 Great job and keep up the good work! 🚴🏼‍♀️

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      1. Running is probably not the most accurate term for me- slow, awkward jogging is probably better 😁 My daughter Bailey has a stationary bike too and like you, really loves certain instructors 😎

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  15. It’s always good to remember how we got there, even if it took us longer than we expected. When I had a bad day as a teacher, (and they happen to every teacher I’ve ever met), I pulled out the letters from parents or children that said thank you and reminded myself that the journey is part of the reward.

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