Enduring

“Endure” has an interesting etymology. It morphs from the Proto-Indo-European root *deru, meaning “be firm, solid, steadfast,” into Latin’s indurare, meaning “to make hard” or “harden (the heart) against.” In 12th century French endurer meant “to make hard, harden, bear, tolerate, keep up, maintain.” In 14th century English we have “to continue in existence” and “to undergo or suffer (especially without breaking)”.¹

Children endure in the face of social issues, rigid gender expectations, lack of power, changing technology, and the transitional nature of childhood. They become harder, both in the sense of stronger and more knowing, but also less flexible, more “set in stone.” Their identities solidify as they endure the pressures of the society in which they live. . … READ MORE»