The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
One thing rings true in my life… it’s not always been easy.
But I am not alone, am I? In fact, philosophers and modern-day life-gurus all seem to agree that the most successful people in life have endured and overcome serious setbacks and failures.
You know it has become rather common to hear it said that “we don’t have problems, we have opportunities… for growth.” Although that may be true, it is of absolutely no meaning to someone who is experiencing some sort of ongoing trial or struggle. When you are in the middle of it, you often see no way out that is satisfactory. And yet you almost always do find a way to come out on the other side of darkness.
Suffering and the Hero’s Journey
I just listened to a podcast in which the point was made that the other side of darkness (light) requires a journey through that darkness before you can come to the light. Is this not the theme of Joseph Campbell’s study of the hero’s journey? The hero’s journey consists of a broad category of tales and lore that involves a “hero” who goes on an adventure, and in a decisive crisis wins a victory (often a self-imposed crisis), and then comes home changed or transformed.
Changed or transformed. Such is the blessing of trial and sufferings. You are better for it than you are without it.
I know it today… as I write. I am experiencing a couple of serious trials, which indeed bring about personal suffering. But as one of my trials nears closure I can already see the much needed transformation. I will be better for it.
How about you?
Suffering: The Road to Transformation
Photo courtesy of yacobchuk at istockphoto
