It’s so easy for us to get down on ourselves and become dismayed in the thick of adversity. Often, we do not know who to turn to or how we should feel when everything seems like it is tumbling down.
I heard a renowned minister share a simple message about adversity to the flock of believers he was visiting in the little big town of Chicago, and it resonated deeply with me. In my own words I wanted to share some of those thoughts with you.
For a brief moment, I was saddened due to my own sustained adversity and difficulty I was enduring, but after reflection, I realized I am blessed. With the recent hurricanes in Texas and Florida and the Caribbean and earthquakes in Mexico, there is no room to be selfish; our own needs and problems pale in comparison to the trauma families are suffering from losing loved ones and property. We the people, once again, have reason to come together in harmony as a united nation.
When you think of the work of diversity and inclusion, social justice and political implications, there is resilience in the face of adversity. It is tough to endure difficulty, but we don’t have to let it define our existence. For those of us who cling to faith to get us through, it is not enough to just wait on God; we have to be proactive and engage and support each other. I think of the biblical Golden Rule – “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.” This is the essence of mitigating adversity and bias.
I don’t want to resort to clichés, because sometimes the old adages people hang on to don’t make sense. But sometimes they do.. For example: if you let the little stuff get you down, how will you handle the storm; know that before things get better they will get worse so brace yourself; and hold on, it can only get better.
So what is the point? just wanted to share some thoughts that perhaps can be built upon. A few nuggets from me; stay steadfast and strong in your labor of love or the work you do. Stay humble with a servant mentality; and know that as long as you are true to self, adversity it just a part of your journey.
Please feel free to share your favorite nugget that propels you through adversity.
