We Count Them Happy That Endure

SCOTT PECK says, ‘It’s in meeting and solving problems that we grow mentally and spiritually. Wise people learn not to dread, but to welcome the pain of problems’. Sociologists who study resiliency, the ability to bounce back, tell us that people handle trauma in two ways: they either give up because they’re afraid, or they grow up by developing the capacity to handle it. What makes the difference? Instead of acting like victims, resilient people firstly assert control and take charge of their lives, secondly, refuse to relinquish their values finding God’s purpose in the problem and then thirdly, refocus on their goal.

During their famous expedition, Lewis and Clark faced incredible hardships. On reaching the Missouri River they thought the worst was over – then they saw the Rockies! Instead of the easy ride downstream they’d expected, they faced their biggest challenge and had to decide either to go back or start climbing! Looking back, they realized it was conquering the river that gave them the confidence they needed for what they’d face later.

NOELA EVANS says, ‘Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth. Tame the dragon and the gift is yours’. Quitting is always simpler than enduring. It’s always easier to stop and have a doughnut than it is to run another lap, but by doing it you produce a pattern that’s hard to break. So, today, if you’re thinking, ‘This relationship’s too hard, I want out’, or, ‘This job isn’t what I expected’, remember, you develop resiliency by remaining faithful in situations you don’t like and sometimes can’t change. ‘So, don’t give up!

From Word for Today, a daily readings booklet available free from [email protected]