Life Is Happening For You And Not To You.

There is an old saying that says "Life is happening for you and not to you". This has to be the most profound statement that has been ever stated. But for those who do not understand fully how this wisdom can help them, let's look deeper behind the words.

I don't think it matters what happens in life to us. We all have fear, worry and setbacks. No one can escape that. Yes, it would be great if these things did not happen but sine we know that they will from time to time the question is how do react to them. Let's see if we can look at these things in a different light and see if we can envision these things as a gift. We need to look beyond these challenges and discover the grace available to us in every single moment. I think an example might help.

Have you ever watched a UFC match where two fighters are looking to test their skills against an equally tough or even tougher opponent than themselves? They are literally punching, elbowing, kicking and kneeing each other. These are athletes at the top of their game and with every ounce of energy, they are trying to have such impact on their opponent that the opponent will give up because they physically cannot go on. But unless the fight gets "called" by the ref that almost never happens. You see they have trained themselves to absorb the hits that they are facing. They seem to shake off a punch to the face or a kick to the ribs with grace like it never happened. But it did. We all know it hurt. We all know it had great impact. However, they just keep moving forward.

The truth is, they have the ability to turn pain and suffering into a learning experience quickly. This ability or growth is ultimately an APPRECIATION FOR THEIR OPPONENT. And with that growth comes the lesson of acceptance and quickly defeating any negative impact a strike may have had. With this attitude, they can defeat their opponent and win their match. We can do this in life.

And it starts by noticing the beauty all around us, the gifts of every day, opportunities to GROW and BE more, to deepen our CONNECTION to our friends and loved ones, experiencing the power of human EMOTIONS like love, gratitude, joy, and the guiding force that brings a sense of awe and wonder for this beautiful gift of life.

EVERYTHING is a gift when we make the choice to live in a beautiful state of being. Yes, admittedly it is difficult at times to make that choice. In fact, there may be times that we lack the ability to make it. It is beyond our capabilities. That is when we need to look at the things we do have in our lives that makes things better...the things that make us grateful. We need to surround ourselves with friends, loved ones and family that share this sense of gratefulness.

All of this is a learned lesson. We need to practice every day but never blame ourselves for falling short at times. Just pick yourself up dust your self off and keep moving. Use every tool at your disposal...friends, family, cognitive therapy, daily walks, meditation...anything that helps. But most of all be grateful.

Be grateful for everything, even the bad things. Because, all of it is meant for a reason and never forget life is ALWAYS happening FOR YOU, not TO you – embrace this truth.