This is both one of the most difficult as well as one of the most powerful days in our 30 day gratitude journey yet. When we all think of the challenges that we have in our life, the last word for many of us is ‘gratitude’. Who would be grateful for a challenge in their life? Would it not be better if everything ran smoothly? Our life as a continuing arc of improvement in all areas? On the surface, our quick answer may be a resounding ‘Yes!’ but upon further contemplation, we may think differently. Reflecting on asking my friends on New Year’s Eve what they were most grateful for in the past year, many of them listed challenges. Why? Some for what they gained out of them. The self-confidence that they could overcome. The resilience of pushing on. Some what they learned about themselves and others. One man had an extreme health challenge. He learned that even through that, the lady in his life was right by his side.
Some may be tempted to say, “Yes but you could learn these things through the other person telling you.” That is both true and not. Using the last example, your spouse could tell you, “Yes, I will be there for you through anything.” They may even mean it, but what happens when the chips are down? People’s actions say far more than their words. Going through a challenge can show you how much someone really loves you or how strong you can be. These are things that you just cannot know any other way. In the same way, your friend’s and partner’s challenges give you the opportunity to show them how much you really care. Again, even more than words. Being there for someone when they lose a loved one, or encouraging and helping them chase their dreams are great ways to show you care. It is an opportunity to be grateful for.
Have you looked at challenges this way before? It is certainly understandable if you have not. What can be empowering is starting to do so now. What challenges are you grateful for? How have they helped you on your journey?
SECRET 2 AN AMAZING LIFE 