After my appointment with Dr. Schwartzman, hearing that hospitalization was eminent, I sat in my black recliner, the same chair I always sit in, looking for answers. Next to me and stored under the stone top coffee table, I spotted Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life, a book my mom had purchased and read a few years ago. I picked it up Wednesday evening and have been reading it ever since, admittedly denying some school work. No matter what your religion or spiritual affiliation, this book is a must read to bring us away from self-centered living and back to serving the community.
As time progresses and I am tried by difficult circumstances, I am realizing that character building is a slow and steady process if you let it be. When we delay our growth by denial, avoidance, regression, resentment, anger, jealousy, and comparing ourselves to others, we inflict upon ourselves the worst and most unnecessary pain possible that would only be temporary discomfort if we faced change and character development head on and with an eager spirit. Each trial is an opportunity for growth, and when viewed in this manner, pain becomes a stepping stone to higher awareness. What are important in this temporary life are not material positions but relationships with those you love. With another hospitalization looming, I am reminded that I would rather have my mom and dad by my bedside than my diplomas or laptops, which reaffirms what this life is about (LOVE). What is a purpose driven life? It is a life centered on spiritual growth, community service, and a turning away from self-centered, worldly temptations. It is the only way to live and something to strive for.
7 comments:
Thank you so much for this post. I'm sorry to hear that you're not doing well- I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. That being said, your posts always force me to think about my own life, and how self-centered I can often be. Just know that your words make a difference in at least one person :)
Maria, I totally feel you. I own that book too and it's a reminder that our trials serve a purpose in our lives. True, I would rather not have had to go through that cancer diagnosis or the chronic pain that I feel now, but .... without those events in my life, I wouldn't have grown, I wouldn't have learned how to persevere or how to help others who are going through similar things. I think events that cause some degree of suffering help knit us closer to our humanity. I wouldn't have met such incredible people if I hadn't walked through this journey (incredible people including you!). I will be praying for your upcoming procedure. I really love how you described character building as a slow and steady process. It also is a very beautiful process. It is an opportunity.
I don't mean to ramble, but your post today really touched my heart. :) Love you girl!!!
Just been catching up on your ketamine posts, I agree that it sounds like things have just kind of aligned and hopefully for a good reason! I had an awful experience the first time, but would still consider another infusion, now that I know so much more about healing myself i think I'd cope much better if I had a chance to strengthen with a break from the flares. It's always super scary going into hospital & entrusting your care to other people, sending lots of hugs and magic support!! xxoo
Mary, I love your comments! You are so insightful and such a wonderful woman. Thank you for all of your support and wise words to add to my life and my blog.
Caf, thank you for understanding. It can be scary, but we can't let fear run our lives. xoxo
Gabriela, I commented on your blog :-)
Maria, Beautiful post, thanks:) I rarely comment (I don't have a blog, I found yours through Kris Carr website) but I really admire your courage, knowledge and love for life. You are helping many people, so THANK YOU!
our worst enemies are often ourselves. well put.
i have a diploma that i am not currently using and face a career change. i know that going through it taught me other things that will make me a stronger person and it was very worth it even if i don't use it as specifically as intended.
thanks for your honesty.
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