“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” C. S. Lewis
Happy Monday!
I hope your weekend was great and that you took some time to recover and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming week!
Recovery takes many forms. We may face health challenges that need time to return to a previous state. Sometimes, the goal is to reach a new level of wellness. Often, we need to rely on professionals who can guide us and monitor our progress, helping us make informed decisions and safely achieve our goals.
Sometimes, the challenges are different in nature, especially when we try to break free from a habit or addiction. In these cases, we might make efforts that start and stop, reaching some success only to fall back. We need to pursue our goals with the understanding that each level of success acts as a stepping stone to our ultimate goal.
Occasionally, we find ourselves faced with circumstances that are simply challenging, through no fault of our own. It could be a family history or a series of generational experiences that require action on our part to resolve. It might also be a predisposition to illness that, if properly treated, can be managed. Alternatively, it could be some rare anomaly that we need to address.
One of the most important parts of recovering well from adversity is to stay hopeful and committed to the effort. Often, we can make changes that will positively influence the outcome. This may take some time, but generally, success can be achieved and sustained.
Here’s a quote from C. S. Lewis that relates to the next point of this musing:
Adversity doesn’t have to be the end of the story. In fact, ordinary people like you and me can make remarkable progress in many areas simply by learning how to recover well. We can take what was meant to distract and dissuade us and turn it into a new reality for ourselves and others. Think of someone you know who’s battled cancer and recovered, becoming a role model for others going through similar times.
How about the recovering alcoholic who, after more than 50 years of sobriety, has inspired hundreds of people to confront their addiction and lead productive lives? I’m sure we all know individuals who have overcome anger and impulsivity or who have faced mental instability, creating survival stories that motivate others. It takes hope and belief in our abilities to conquer what seems impossible and find empowerment.
Scripture shares a few encouraging words:
“To console those who mourn in Zion,
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they may be called trees of righteousness,
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.
And they shall rebuild the old ruins,
They shall raise up the former desolations,
And they shall repair the ruined cities,
The desolations of many generations.” Isaiah 61:3-4
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free?” Luke 4:18 (NIV)
We can make a difference in our lives and the lives of others by facing our challenges and working toward recovery. It may seem overwhelming or impossible at first, but often it’s not. We need to be open to change, find the right resources, and put in the effort, all while maintaining a positive outlook and mindset.
There is also great value in properly resourcing ourselves. Do some research to identify the necessary elements for success. Then, apply those resources to address the specific need and take action. Don’t let negative, spiraling thoughts weigh you down. Stay positive and push through the adversity.
My encouragement to you this week is to embrace hope in the face of adversity. Use your resources and find ways to stay accountable for your goals. Talk with trusted friends, mentors, and professionals to achieve the best possible results. I’m sending positive thoughts and prayers your way and remain hopeful for your success!
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
