This weekend was graced by the August full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, because late summer is prime sturgeon fishing season in the Great Lakes region, where these ancient fish have long been revered. Sturgeon are among the largest of the freshwater bony fish, with a lineage stretching back to the Jurassic period. Often called “living fossils,” they are prized for their meat and roe, and can live for 50 to 60 years on average. Instead of scales, their bodies are lined with rows of bony plates, and their skeletons are made of cartilage, much like sharks. With long, pointy snouts and sensory whiskers similar to catfish, sturgeon can grow to more than 20 feet in length and weigh hundreds of pounds.

In Native American spirituality, the sturgeon symbolizes resilience and endurance, making this an appropriate time to reflect on strength, perseverance, and emotional release.

That theme resonated with us this weekend as we explored the results of the CliftonStrengths assessment Jon took in preparation for a team engagement activity at work. Cliff had taken the same assessment years ago while working at UT Arlington, and though time has passed, the insights remain relevant.

We learned that we bring to our relationship two distinct but complementary sets of strengths: Jon is the thinker, the planner, the doer; Cliff is the emotional compass.

Jon’s top strengths—Context, Achiever, Learner, Responsibility, and Intellection—reveal him as someone who draws wisdom from the past to inform the present. He’s driven by goals and determination, always curious and eager to grow. His strong sense of responsibility ensures he follows through with integrity, and his intellectual nature thrives in deep thought and meaningful conversation.

Cliff’s strengths—Harmony, Positivity, Developer, Adaptability, and Empathy—indicate he is someone who seeks peace and connection. He brings lightness and joy, nurturing growth in others with patience and care. His ability to adapt helps him flow with life’s changes, and his empathy makes him a comforting and safe presence.

Over nearly 25 years together, we’ve learned how to complement each other. Jon provides structure, insight, and momentum. Cliff offers emotional depth, flexibility, and encouragement. Where Jon leans into planning and analysis, Cliff brings spontaneity and warmth. When Jon is caught up in the pursuit of achievement, Cliff reminds him to pause, breathe, and savor the moment.

These strengths don’t just balance each other—they elevate each other. Jon’s introspection is enriched by Cliff’s emotional intelligence. Cliff’s desire for harmony is supported by Jon’s reliability and thoughtfulness.

Of course, these differences can also create tension. Jon’s need for structure sometimes clashes with Cliff’s carefree nature. Jon’s intensity can sometimes overwhelm Cliff, who values peace. But with awareness and appreciation of each other’s strengths, we can process these differences and make of them opportunities for deeper understanding and connection.