When it comes to battles and warfare, you can’t beat the Romans for their innovative strategies. One of their most effective defenses against enemy attack was a tactic called the tortoise. To protect themselves from enemy spears and arrows, Roman legionaries would form a square with their backs in and shields out. They would then lock their shields to form four walls and a roof. It was called a tortoise because it looked like the impenetrable shell of a tortoise.
Doing so provided protection for soldiers. Most importantly, their backs were protected.
We frequently hear the term “I’ve got your back”. What a reassuring phrase that is to hear. It refers to the idea that when one is in a precarious situation that causes him or her to be in danger or subject to criticism, there is someone there who’s protecting them, supporting them, on their side. A person saying that they have your back means they are there to help you out; they’re there to watch out and take care of things you may miss.
In today’s world, there are many who are out to stab us in the back – to harm, discredit, sabotage us. How comforting it is to know that the opposite is true – that here’s someone who’s sticking up for you rather than sticking it to you.
In the workplace, at home, and in families, we need people who have our backs. And we need to have the backs of those we love, support, and care about.
Think about it. Who’s got your back? And who’s back do you have?
©Julie Alexander
