In the inevitable storms of life know that you are not alone. Dig your toes in and stand, firmly planted, with your face to the wind. In this stance you will bend but you will not break.
The Book of You - Simple Truths to Reawaken the Journey
Copyright 2010
Wikipedia describes a storm as "any disturbed state of environment or astronomical bodies' atmosphere marked by a significant disruption to normal conditions". Storms generally lend themselves to a negative impact on lives or property. They are created when low pressure develops with a system of high pressure surrounding it. While an apt description of the factors that converge to create a physical storm, I can't help but draw a parallel to all of the elements in life that converge to create storm-like conditions in our own lives which also tend to be caused by a build up of varietal pressures, each carrying with them the potential for negative impact for they too can pack a wallop --- on body, mind and emotion.
A inherent instinct to seek shelter from a physical storm is often replicated by our impulse to retreat and shelter-in-place from the external forces of life that serve to batter and constrain our person or emotional self. Retreat can be an outward expression of our drive to survive, a powerful force which kicks in often outside of our conscious control anytime that we feel threatened or wounded; subsequently, we pull in as an act of self preservation. It tends to be the storms and trials of life however that once transcended serve as our greatest teacher and source of growth; what once appeared so insurmountable an obstacle when faced from a forward stance, once looked upon in rear reflection, forces a knowing and recognition that not only did we possess within ourselves the resourcefulness to survive but the will and determination to press onward.
Just as iron is brought through the fire in order to become malleable under the hammer of the skilled blacksmith charged with shaping it into an instrument of usefulness, unique character and strength, so too our own lives are burnished and purified through many a stormy trial and we emerge stronger, fortified, more deeply seated in wisdom and therein useful for service. Indeed, a few battle scars we may bear but emboldened we exist. To not be tested therein we risk stagnation and diminished growth.
Storms in life are inevitable thus assuming a tactical stance whereby we suit up and properly equip our emotional self by seeking that quiet place of soul and divine resource in which to garner our reserve of strength and to seek wisdom is key; thereafter, to strategically position ourselves with feet firmly planted and face to the gale, regardless of force we will bend but not break.
Armor up!
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of overcoming it."
Helen Keller
"Consider it all joy brethren when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance, and let endurance have its perfect result that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
James 1:2-4
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