Lesson one: grow
Over the last several months I’ve seen the same saying pop up on social media sites and bumper stickers that says, “Grow where you’re planted.” On the surface this may be easier said than done but, hey, what isn’t?
Take the coffee plant for instance. Some of the most sought after beans come from plants grown at an altitude that stifles many other plants or, better still, grown in the shade of larger trees. Would it be easier to grow in a thicker atmosphere or in the full light of sun? Maybe, but the fruit wouldn’t be as distinctive.
As you look at your life, you can probably pick out situations that have shaped you into who you are. They may be happy, joyous occasions, they may be trials or difficulties. Often, the times of most difficulty are the ones that mold us the most, developing that part of us that makes us unique. In addition, those experiences that we would rather soon forget have been the ones that make us grow the most.
I remember when our four month old went for heart surgery. I said to my wife, “Some day we’ll laugh about this.” We may not have laughed, but we have been very grateful for those who make their life work helping children. The experience was difficult, but it brought us into contact with people we wouldn’t have met otherwise and gave us the opportunity to be thankful for each situation. Even the hard ones.
Lesson: The next time you are faced with difficult situations, pause to remember that, like the coffee bean, struggle makes you stronger, unique, and ultimately in a position to help others through their difficulties.
