Rough times are some of life's most generous teachers. When viewed from a wide perspective, these difficult yesterdays transform into beautiful todays. We can find magnificent blessings in exceedingly difficult times. If we observe closely, a ray of light--a very small ray at first--begins to reveal the reasons why we needed to travel rough roads. An English proverb states, "A stumble may prevent a fall." Who would not rather stumble if it would prevent a tragic accident or a deeply sad regret in the future? "Stumbles" wake us upshow us that we've taken the wrong path. We see, perhaps for the first time, that if we had not stumbled, we would not be standing as straight and strong this moment. The sun breaks through each overcast sky, and we find ourselves wiser and more resilientable to see with a joyful spiritual vision. Then we receive one of the greatest spiritual gifts: the recognition of authentic happiness. Authentic happiness is true joy that lives within the soul. It is not a reaction to material possessions or events. It is a deep inner appreciative joy that follows us in spite of circumstances. Emerson beautifully described authentic happiness when he wrote, "The sun illuminates only the eye of the man, but shines into the heart of the child. In the presence of nature, a wild delight runs through the man, in spite of real sorrows." Our life stories, with all their transitions and challenges, can be exciting page turners. We must simply move past the introduction into the heart of the plot where the drama and adventure unfold. Allow the first chapter of your story to teach you, no matter how difficult it might have been. Let its valuable lessons inspire a future that you can envision with enthusiastic anticipation. Your story is waiting to be written, and only you can write the final copy. |
