Malcolm X believed, “There is no better teacher than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.”

In some Japanese cultures, the term 'jiritsugai' means to learn from adversity ; turn challenges into opportunities to learn and grow. In recovery programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, the Big Book says, "Avoid then, the deliberate manufacture of misery, but if trouble comes, cheerfully capitalize it as an opportunity to demonstrate His omnipotence." Pema Chödrön, a Tibetan Buddhist, believed, "Obstacles are our friends: they teach us where we're stuck... Feel the feelings and drop the story." 

Life is complex, not a bed of roses, and brings challenges to us. We will experience times in our lives where we feel like we can't go any further, like we're stuck, like nothing is ever going right. We will have that still, small voice telling us, "You can't do this ; Just give up ; It's over ; You won't win." In the face of adversity, even our ancestors, many different cultures, and religions or spiritual beliefs tell us to do things differently. 

If we follow those of our ancestors and those who have walked this path before us, they encourage us to take adversity like a bull by the horns. Embrace it. Accept it. Allow it to transform you, no matter how uncomfortable you are. 

Thought for the day: Embrace change, challenges, struggles. Embrace them with an open arm. 

Action for the day: I'm going to cheerfully capitalize upon any challenges that arise today. 

Peace and love to all

~ KO