Adversity – no matter how much we try to avoid it in our lives, it just seems to keep popping up. It could be of a financial nature, health, or, maybe a relationship. Whatever form it takes, sometimes, no matter how developed our consciousness is, things just happen. So the question is not whether it will happen but how do we deal with it when it does?
First, we can remember the phrase, “This, too, shall pass”. You may or may not like this statement but it is true. Everything in life changes, which means that at some point, no matter how much we plan, things can happen, which may not be as we would like. When it does, we can remember it will not be forever.
Second, we can practice the Serenity Prayer, (“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”) We can ask for guidance on whether there is anything we CAN change, and if not, to accept it for what it is at that moment. The more we resist things, the more we fight them, the more we deny their existence- the longer we have to deal with it.
There have been many times in my life that something I was struggling with disappeared almost as soon as I practiced acceptance and letting go of the need to control.
Thirdly, be aware that very often the things that cause us the most pain, are those that bring us the greatest gifts. This is not easy when you are in the middle of a crises, but it sure is a great way to get through those difficult times.
Which brings me to my last point – no matter how much you try to go around a challenge or avoid it, the best and quickest way to get to the other side is to just go through it! It may seem like the hardest way but in most cases it is the most effective way.
In the end, it is about how we face the challenges in our life that count, not whether or not we can avoid them.
Quote of the Week
“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me…You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”
Walt Disney
