Last evening I drank too much caffeine and couldn’t sleep. I found myself clicking through channels on late night television and landed on an old favorite of mine. The Big Valley.

The ABC series ran in the late sixties and portrayed a woman named Victoria Barkley (played by Barbara Stanwyck), a widow of a wealthy nineteenth century California rancher. Week after week, this woman faced intense drama with a perfect blend of tenderness and tenacity. I remember thinking I wanted to grow up to be just like her.

Barbara Stanwyck’s refusal to portray the character as fragile was controversial at the time, but I loved how Victoria was both credibly warm and tough as nails.

I know a few women just like that:

~   The friend who faced another MRI this week, to see if the cancer was back.

~   Another gal learned her son is in jail. He crashed her car while driving under the influence.

~   One woman got the call every woman dreads. Her husband went for a ride on his motorcycle and isn’t coming home. Ever.

Despite their hurting hearts, these women will pick themselves up and face the days ahead with strength and dignity. Faith will carry them through.

What about you? How do you deal with hard times?

“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future.” Proverbs 31:25

In my novel MOTHER OF PEARL (Abingdon Press, Sept 2012), Barrie Graeber learns devastating news. Pre-order your copy today and learn how far this resolute woman will go to set things right.