If you’re using strength as a mask, don’t be surprised when peace stops showing up. The Truth Beneath the Smile I used to think being strong meant never letting myself break down. I was wrong. When my husband was falling apart, I played the rock. I held the house, the emotions, and the silence. I kept telling myself, if I just hold it together, maybe everything won’t fall apart. So, I smiled. I said, “I’m fine.” But every night, I cracked a little more. That’s the truth. Here