If You Try

If You Try

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Growth is Pain (But turns to Strength)

oak tree Pictures, Images and Photos

The benefit of the end result is what most people envision and desire. We are motivated by reaching a better quality of life mentally, physically, spiritually, financially,relationally, etc. I could go on and on. The hard truth though is that we must undergo some pain to reach greater heights. The painful process involved in realizing our potential has the wonderful affect of making us humble, appreciative, and level headed (at least it should). Growth in any area of life makes us vulnerable and this is why most people are unable to grow. They don't want to go through the humiliation, confusion, sorrow, and loneliness (sometimes) that growth requires. It is human nature to run from pain and pursue pleasure. But there is no way we can escape experiencing pain in this life. Furthermore, no one could know real pleasure without going through pain. Think of a time that you overcame a painful time in your life. Didn't it make you stronger? Doesn't it give you greater confidence knowing that you overcame? Well then, a challenge I pose to you friends (as well as myself) is to attempt to embrace pain and realize that it is a fundamental and imperative component of our growth. I know it's easier said than done. Even as I write this, I shudder to think of having to undergo more painful experiences. But in the end friends, we will be as strong and beautiful as the oak tree, able to provide shelter, wisdom, and strength to those who look up to us that are also going through their growth process.

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