A friend and I just had a conversation about this topic. We've all heard this... if you were to gather a stadium of people together, ask them to take all of their troubles/challenges/problems and put them into a backpack, then have them all label their backpacks and put them into the center of the stadium. Then, have everyone in the stadium, walk around the center of the stadium with the option of the backpack of their choice, MOST people would go home with their own backpack.
I believe this wholeheartedly. In the past few days, I've spoken with several different people, who have shared their personal trials. Some of them, in great depth. I love these people. All are wonderful, blessed people. And yet they are dealing with some very serious challenges in life. A friend just shared the situation of a friend of theirs. I was in disbelief. These people are mega-multi-millionaires and have a lifestyle that includes owning jets, having servants (not just a housekeeper) and a lifestyle that we see in the movies. Yet, they are lonely and still seeking happiness. Another friend who, seemingly, "has it all", is experiencing struggles that, in my own personal experience and knowledge, are unmatched. Another friend shared with me, just this morning, that they are going through a life-changing experience. I had to sit down to listen to it. I'd have never dreamed they would be going through this.
I say every day, many times, Life is good! I believe that, totally and completely! It is! BUT. Life is hard. None of us have it easy. Every day, every struggle is a learning process. AND. No amount of money or toys or travels or people in our lives is going to take those growing experiences away. The best thing we can do is be kind to those around us, pray for ourselves and each other, look through every challenge for "what it is I can learn from this." I know. I sound like a broken record. I visit this place often in my mind and on my blog. But, seriously, my friends. Life is good, but it's hard. My faith gets me through the tough times. Others depend on friends or family. I couldn't live without either of them. I'm just saying, this morning... be kind, be cheerful, look for the good. There's always something to smile about, even on the darkest day. Look for ways to serve those around you. There's always joy in service. No matter how small. I'm rambling. But, I do believe with every fiber of my being, that trials make us stronger, better and yes, even happier, in the end. No matter how tough, life really is good. Enough said.
With trials, we grow stronger in faith.
With faith, we grow closer to God.
With God, we can do all things.
It's so very true! In my own home we deal every single day with a major health issue, along with the myriad of issues involving family. My faith gets me through every day, and the knowledge that there are people who care, friends who love me. But it's not easy in the least. But... I see people in my line of work every day who are dealing with things so much bigger than the issues I deal with at home. I see news stories and posts on facebook about people who have it so much harder. And I know so many are facing these trials without faith, without knowing Heavenly Father. I can't even begin to imagine how hard that must be. Life really IS good. In fact, it's pretty dang great! :) <3
Posted by: Trish | Friday, March 15, 2013 at 06:34 AM
Amen! Preach it!
Posted by: Pamela K. | Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 02:08 PM
Sophia, I had a big trial last summer: breast cancer: stage 1. I had a lumpectomy and I am OK now. This big trial helped me understand what you are saying every day: Life is good! You cannot believe how many young kids, young women in their twenties or thirties I met at the hospital and whose situation was much worse than mine, I didn't need chemo and my radiation was just 3 weeks, so I considered myself blessed than it wasn't worse. As you say, these is always something to smile and there are lots of people around us who have many more problems than us. Thanks for this reminder!
Posted by: Nicole | Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 12:53 PM
Life is what you make it - the good, the bad, the ugly and the beautiful. Each moment is meant to be felt in the soul. A journey that must be traveled.
Posted by: Debra Guerrero | Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 12:21 PM
Thanks Sophia, we could all use a reminder. I try to do that on a regular basis. (I mean try to realize that my petty problems are in No comparison to many of those people out there.) But we have our pity party days. Even on a day Like today that I feel like complete hammered beans after serveral days of feeling like this, I have to remind myself that at least I'm not in the hospital, my kids are healthy. And My parents are coming so hopefully they can help out... I'm one of the lucky ones. I think it's all about attitude.
Posted by: Audra Jones | Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 10:43 AM