1. They are reflective, able to look back on experiences and extract kernels of wisdom from them. 2. They don't back off from realisty, but face it squarely, labeling things for what they are--setbacks, losses, disappointments. 3. They know their feelings, label them correctly, and express them fluently and routinely to others. 4. They are able to separate timezones--past from present from future. 5. They commit to agony of grieving for as long as it takes. 6. They find meaning and purpose in their struggles, knowing that they will benefit in end by a greater understanding of fundamentals of live. 7. They have a high EQ, including being able to think flexibly and creatively under stress. They expand rather than shut down when faced with a challenge. 8. They keep a reserve of energy built up through regular periods of rest and renewal. 9. They have a strong network of individuals they can depend upon, and who know and accept them as they are.

And then once they're strengths, they need to be practiced, applied, used. Action must be taken. Another beginning. Just exactly when do we get to rest on our laurels??

"Don't worry about your problems with mathematics," said Einstein. "I can assure you that mine are far greater." No rest for weary.

The gifted poet John Berryman wrote a profound poem about 'the end of strengths' which I felt moved to illustrate (URL:http://www.geocities.com/pocketpeach2 rainer.htm) It's about a proficient animal trainer who's in burn out. He's used his natural talents and strengths ... too long? too hard? too often? without balance? without adequate support? But that's a whole 'nother story, burn out, and there we have orouborus again: some clients can recycle from burn-out. For others, it's too late.

Understanding endless cycle of beginnings and endings is part of adjusting to constancy of change in our lives.