Give Thanks - Challenges

I have several friends who are going through a hard time or have just recovered from a hard time in their lives.  I wish I could give them strength as they take on the battles of their lives.  I know though that there is nothing you can really do but be there for the type of support that they need and lend an ear.  You can't do anything to solve the problem until they take the first step.  And that's hard.  That's hard because as an outsider you have a lot more perspective and can see things in a clear and unemotional way.  When you're caught up in it, you can't see the clearest way out, even if someone points it out to you.  I know how hard that is and I am sad to see several people I love going through that.

I've had my own serious challenges.  I've struggled.  I've fallen down and messed up multiple times.  And I've also learned how to pick myself up and put the pieces of my mind back together.  It was horrible and hard but I am so grateful for it because now I know myself better than I did and better than I would have if everything had been easy for me.  Having myself completely destroyed and rebuilt through hard work and perseverance has given me a strength and self confidence that I love.  You only really know what you're capable of when you've had to fight so hard with something internal.

So yes, it was the worst time of my life and I didn't know if I would make it.  But I did.  And I'm stronger now.  I'm grateful.  So, although I am sorry some of my friends are struggling, I know they can get through this and be stronger on the other side.  Stay strong in yourself.