persevering why?

per·se·ver·ance: n.
1. steady persistaence in adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose; steadfastness
2. persistent determination
3. contancy, dedication, endurance, purposfullness, stamina

through almost every trial we persevere. we endured through five years of studio critiques and are dedicated to causes that promote life. we fight for health despite sickness and endure hardships knowing we will be made stronger. if we don't persevere in struggles, we feel as if we've given up. we didn't have what it takes...we couldn't rise above.

i am not made to give up. i am a fighter. i would rather fight and be left with nothing than withdraw and surrender. i want to know that i did everything i could, gave everything i had, left knowing i had nothing left to offer. but it is with what motivation? do i fight because it is right and true, or because i am afraid to surrender? do i persevere because it is something greater than myself or am unyielding because it is for something think i want?

faith: n.
1. confident beilef in truth, value, trustworthiness of person, idea or thing
2. sincerity or honesty of intentions
3. belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence

stub·bornn: adj.
1. unreasonable, often peversely unyielding; bullheaded
2. firmly resolved or determined
3. characterized by perseverence
4. resolute adherence to your own ideas or desires

a fine line of divides the two