Life. You’d think we’d have it figured out by now.
Where we are at the moment often feels like it’s where we’ll always be.
I hate getting sick (who doesn’t!). And, when I am, I get stuck in wrong thinking that this will be my prevailing condition for the rest of my life.
A couple years ago, I had plantar fasciitis, and I was convinced I would live the balance of my life with this painful affliction. Yet, it too, got better (well, after a year and a half of actively working on it…but it did go away!) On the other hand, when I’m feeling good, strong and healthy, I believe that state will persist as well.
But, life doesn’t exist in a permanent state. It’s not a straight line. The path is winding and jagged. We experience times of both good health and vitality, as well as periods of illness or sorrow. In life, happiness gives way to sadness, and joy turns into mourning. And, there are times when something can brighten a sad day, and turn mourning into dancing. While we may feel like our current state will be permanent, it never is. We must handle the twists and turns with grace and forbearance.
Politics anyone? In our country today, it seems as though we’ve adopted an ‘us vs. them’ mindset. And it feels like this division will remain forever. But it doesn’t need to. Unity is just ahead on the horizon.
Within each of us are a full spectrum of emotions, attitudes and mindsets. These shift and change over time, if we let them.
Ultimately, nothing is permanent. We must maintain a healthy perspective that accepts change…that expects change. The ability to ebb and flow through life carries us through tough times.
Nothing is permanent. Life isn’t a straight line. Moments are here one day and gone the next. Keep agile. Stay flexible. Reach Above the Line. Stretch forward to better times ahead.
And live on purpose today.
