There are times in our lives that life presents a cascade of scenarios that we have to deal with or adjust to. What is important is to stay focused and recognize the lessons that appear when it feels as if you are sinking under the down pour.
1. Rain provides growth.
When you are going through difficult situations, think about your past when you encountered previous challenges. Remember how those situations did not kill you (although it might have felt like it) but you recognized your strength. In my experience, I’ve learned some valuable lessons. I realized at my mother in law’s funeral that it is so easy to sweat the small stuff. My mother in law had a difficult life. She was disowned by her family for marrying a black man and never returned to Japan. For over 50 years, she was disconnected from her people and yet, she was able to create such beauty through her three children, her knitting, and her gardens. Her life enriched my experience and yet, helped me to realize that no matter what we go through, our focus can determine our success. She chose to focus on her new life instead of the pain of her past.
2. There are times when you need to be covered.
There are so many umbrellas that surround us in our lives. Our relationships can serve as umbrellas to help during the downpours of our lives. I know when I am struggling, my faith, my family and my friends are available to serve as sounding boards. According to an Inc article by Rhett Power entitled, “7 Ways Successful People Build Exceptional Professional Relationships”, people who are successful are kind and thoughtful. Treat others well so that in your time of need, you have the support that you need in order to have those umbrellas available.
3. The rain does stop and the sun comes out.
Know that change is inevitable. No matter what you are going through, good or bad, you can trust that change will come. We all experience transitions in our life. Abigail Brenner states, “There are six recognizable stages that accompany transition: loss, uncertainty, discomfort, insight, understanding, and integration. The accompanying emotions for these stages can run the gamut, depending on the individual and how they perceive and negotiate transitions. Essentially, the energy that has powered an outdated role, status, or persona needs to be released in order for it to be available for what you are to become.” The filter—positive or negative– that you use to view the rain will determine your ability to endure the challenge. Change doesn't always feel good but if you understand that there is an end and that through the process, your thinking, your behaviors or even your life could be transformed.
Despite the challenges I've faced, I see rays of sunlight peeking through. I have learned so many lessons that will help me when I face the next storm or will allow me to help others in my life when they are going through similar difficulties.
In the meantime, I will look forward to and enjoy the peace in knowing that things are getting better!
