My step-dad. He was the John Wayne in my life. RIP.

Sticking to it and not letting the bastards get you down. 

I know the definition of grits: Girls Raised In The South!

A bad-ass "Man's Man" so to speak.  Like a John Wayne.  You can't swim?  Fine, I'll toss you in the river.

Grit could be "down and dirty". Getting involved with determination, self confidence and the experience to get it done. 

Gambini: Well perhaps the laws of physics cease to exist on your stove! Were these magic grits?

Stay firm?

Sometimes adds friction so that we can get a grip, somes as in the case of "True Grit", it has more to do with guts and moxie

Something I eat with eggs. 

When the guy next to you can't go any further and you are still pumping your body for the next shovel full of whatever this World kicks at you.

persistence

just get it done

Able to dish it out as well as take it. Tough as nails but knows when to fold their cards & call it a day.

Sand.

Grits plural and true grit are something else!

Some one or thing that adheres and prevails when called upon

The only grit I am associated with in my clam chowder, I hate that.

fortitude& tenacity.  Grit is about getting back up off the ground when life knocks you down. 

To me it is going around, over or through anything in my path that keeps me from my ultimate goal.  To never quit trying and never try quitting!

Peter,

Determination, creativity and doing everything possible to make it happen.  A

One half of grits.  I don't kiss anyone's grit.

For me, it's 'stick-to-it-ness' (HA!) Peter Mohylsky!  I know, it's similar to perseverance!  It's hanging in there when things get tough, or when you get not good news, or when you are disappointed or dejected.  It's 'getting up' again . . .  it's a wonderful trait to have . . .