Power vs. Force

Yesterday, one of my niece's said something that really stuck in my head. She said when she first met me her thoughts were, There's a man with Power.
I have never heard anyone say that about me or anyone else really, especially as an out and out compliment which she was very clear in stating that's what it was.
When asked for clarification, she said power is not the same as force.
So I'm trying to unscrew this koan for myself. I've certainly not felt powerful over the last several months, years. In fact I've felt like life, and trying to please others all the time in everything I do or say has made me anything but powerful.
Powerful, not overbearing or running over everyone.
The journey I've been on with my therapist, and my time with Matt has been one of discovering or uncovering who I am. I know my sister Suz feels like I'm sometimes to easy-going, like I don't stand up for myself. She got upset that I didn't stand up and fight for myself, Suz feels like people "walk" on me because I let them.
My attitude is more to ask "is this hill worth dying on?". I don't sweat the little things, I know something happened during the wedding and my response was, oh well do the best with what I have. Now a month later, I can't recall exactly what the drama was. I remember the fun I had with family and new friends.
I guess part of what makes me who I am, is that I know I have a servants heart. For example if I'm at church and see the pastor before service walking around with a snow shovel, I will go take it from him and clear the walks myself. His focus before service should be on his message and being there for the people. I see things that need done and do them, or try to help people. I'm constantly asking people, men and women if they need help with a big package as they walk out of the store. Not doubting their ability to handle it, just trying to make life easier for those around me.
I'm at peace with that, it's part of my makeup. I feel very strongly that Shared Pain is lessened, shared Joy increased. So I try to spread Joy. Honestly though I do have problems sharing my own pain with others. In the past, I've felt like if I show weakness or pain, others will either run away or use it as a weapon against me in the future. I guess growing up showing any emotion but anger or contempt was treated as a sign of weakness. Even some of the saying I've picked up, Be tough your' a Hubbard. Cowboy up. Quit cryin get your big girl panties on and do what needs be done. While there is a time for this, IT IS NOT THE ONLY WAY TO HANDLE LIFE.
I've been giving myself permission to experience emotions, sorrow, pain, hurt.

So back to the power thing. Posted the question Power vs Force on FB. and one friend being a bit of a smart ass opened it up for me. Power is what the Empire has, Force is what you light your saber with. I like the analogy, but look at it as Power comes from within, force comes from the outside. A tree's power is in it's roots, the force of the wind has to work harder to uproot the tree, than the tree has to use it's power to stay put. A little breeze isn't even noticed by the tree. It takes a HUGE ASS wind to rip a tree up. Even then a tree bends with the force keeping rooted in it's power and can withstand the wind.
I am learning more where my power lies.
My power lies in my faith in a Loving God. Knowing that God is Good ALL THE TIME.

My power lies in my hearts, yes plural,
I've a servants heart see the explanation above.
I've a tender heart, I'm deeply in love with my daughter Abigayle, I've had people say, Abi has you wrapped around her finger, I always respond, that's right where I should be.
I've a poets heart. While I can't always get into words the feelings and thoughts I have within, I'm overwhelmed by the beauty that surrounds me. The tall old rugged tree standing defiant in a winter field. The first dandelion of summer. The song of the wind as it roars or whispers past me. The peace of watching the first snowfall of winter blanket the city, calming it down like a restless baby.

My power lies in my humor, the ability to find the funny and laughter of almost anything that's going on around me.

So further thoughts on this are forthcoming, I've only had a day to really tear into the meat of this idea.