Smile And Be Grateful Anyway

Helen Keller famously quoted:

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

Life wasn't meant to be easy. In fact, sometimes it can be incredibly difficult but that doesn't mean we have to spend our lives being miserable and ungrateful.

Just like this stormy day at the beach, we can either give in to the weather and allow the crashing waves to drown us or we can make the choice NOT to allow our circumstances to control our lives and affect our happiness.

I often have to remind myself that the "trial and suffering" I have experienced over the years has a purpose. It doesn't make it any easier to bear, but it is important to remember the bigger picture. 

It is important to remain in a state of gratitude for what I have, rather than to focus on what I have lost. It's important to find other reasons to smile and I have so many more of those!

One day, I am sure the answers will be revealed. But until then, I will wait patiently, I will watch from afar, I will allow myself to be stretched and strengthened -- I will allow my character to be developed and I will hold fast to the promise:

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
~ Romans 8:28

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