Good Morning!

Here we are in the final week of July! I heard someone the other day reflect on how March, April, and May went by slowly, but June and July have flown. It’s interesting how our minds shift perspective in the presence of acceptance and adaptation.

In a sense, it’s the same with our wellbeing practices. When we shift from viewing self-care as a task of realizing the potential for rejuvenation, we find ourselves more likely to engage in healthy practices. This mindset is true for mental and emotional health, as well as physical wellness. I believe the methods are particularly useful during times of trial, such as those we’re currently experiencing. When we look at a broader spectrum, we see more possibilities than limitations.

This quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is reflective of the broader nature of the future while finding peace in the reality of the immediate:

MLK Quotes on Faith: 5 Inspirational Lessons For Church Leaders

It’s akin to being willing to lose the battle to win the war. Our minds struggle to make sense of loss, disappointment, or adversity of any kind. We don’t like being limited and often find ourselves unable to accept restrictions. However, when we begin to realize the power within, we can look beyond the finite disappointment in favor of embracing the infinite hope to which we have unlimited access.

I’m reminded of a child learning to walk. There are a lot of missteps and falls, seemingly endless trials. The child accepts the momentary disappointment in favor of the greater desire to be independent and mobile. He tries and tries because the hope is real, and the goal is tangible. What would happen if he did not accept the finite disappointment of falling repeatedly? The child may never know the delight of walking on his own. It’s the infinite hope that compels him to accomplish his objective.

Scripture offers much wisdom in times of trial:

“My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure.”  James 1:2-3 (GNT)

There’s a Chinese Proverb that states:

“The gem cannot be polished without friction nor man perfected without trials.”

Paramahansa Yogananda shares:

“Your trials did not come to punish you, but to awaken you.”

There’s yet another ingredient that compliments a change in perspective and the deep desire to gain accomplishment. It’s the encouragement of others. As the child is learning to walk, many around him are in agreement with his quest. They cheer and reassure to help boost his confidence and raise his spirits.

In this current atmosphere of unrest and fear, accepting finite disappointment is a reality of which we’re well aware. But we have a choice. We can choose to allow infinite hope to be the cushion upon which we fall. Then we can get up again, as many times as it takes, to walk in strength and with purpose to reach our goals. Along the way, we can acknowledge those who encourage us and raise our spirits with affection and gratitude.

In times of trial this week, remember that temporary setbacks are inevitable, but leaning into the promised hope will help you accomplish your goals!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda