December 22

”A constant struggle, a ceaseless battle to bring success from inhospitable surroundings, is the price of all great achievements.” Orison Swett Madison

Dealing with life on life’s terms some days can be a challenge. Having emotions again, well there are moments when the temptation to numb them can feel attractive. Feeling hurt, sad, angry or rejected, this is not a fun place to be. Yet my recovery has taught me that I don’t make things better by wanting to escape from my emotions. The best thing I can do is sit through them and even explore where they are coming from, what needs in me are being unmet, and to learn from the experience. Life is a constant struggle where many things may seem to be against me.  But that isn’t entirely fair either. Life may feel like a battleground, but most of the time it’s pretty close to paradise. The dark clouds are only temporary, and I am learning how to weather the storm. This is the trick, to prepare myself not just to survive the inclement weather, but to brave the howling winds and push through the storm. It is in adversity that I grow, that I must rely on my strengths and my resources to move on. It is also where my faith in my Higher Power helps me to stay grounded and to keep up my hopes that this too shall pass. Yet the growth comes from wading through the challenges more than simply remaining as a bystander.

Affirmation

Life may feel like it is riddled with challenges, but they are opportunities for growth and to build my confidence in handling life in better, healthier ways.