“Only those who risk going too far, can possibly find out how far one can go.” -T.S. Eliot
We all know what’s bad about a crisis. We are usually taken by surprise by a major change we didn’t see coming, one that is really tough to adjust to.
I can’t say I didn’t see my divorce coming, I just wouldn’t accept it. Then one day my husband and I decided together that it was simply what needed to happen, for each of us to find happiness in the long run.
But when I lost my job, I was taken completely by surprise! At that time, no one could have convinced me that this was a good thing! It was one of the worst times in my entire life. I struggled mightily with myself and my fate.
But today, I see how I needed for these misfortunes to occur, for me to wake up and begin to live my life with more integrity.
So what’s GOOD about a life crisis? It quickly knocks us out of our comfort zone, and then demands more from us. When more is demanded, more is given.
If I hadn’t lost my job, I never would have started my dating service for those 40+. I never would have had the experience of starting my own business, struggled with those circumstances and I probably wouldn’t have met my lovely new husband. Then I wouldn’t have moved, gotten the money from my old house, and used that to start seeing a career counselor who slowly talked me into doing exactly what I had always wanted to do.
We never know what one small change in our lives might lead to. Sometimes we just need to feel the fear and do it anyway.
Life crises can force our hand, pushing us into a whole new world of risk and benefit. We may feel forced to take risks we would never have considered before, and in this way, learn much more about ourselves and our full potential.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Man, I haven’t had the same crisis (yet), but I have had my share and I can tell you first hand – if they don’t kill you – you will grow.
Hi!
It’s amazing what a little pain can do for us. We have no idea at the time but pain and crisis are generally the instigators of a new path. The problem is that we can either take the path that leads to toxic actions or the path that leads to being better individuals. I’ve tried both of those.
Bliss…
Joe
Hi Joe:
That’s why I say pay attention to your pain, both psychic and physical. Your body is trying to tell you something, and it’s always better to listen and learn!
Laura Lee