Rarely do I ever post about my failures and frustrations which are simply too numerous to recall. Troubles are always lurking just below the surface... financial, professional, moral, health, teenage boys... you name it, I suffered, and will continue to suffer, through it until the day I die. And you know what? I welcome it.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I am wanting to struggle but I realize I am human and it is a constant part of our life. It is what makes us stronger. In actuality, a truly strong person is not someone who stands tall in times of plenty but someone who pulls it together and holds firm in times of famine and weakness, so these trials and tribulations serve a great purpose.
Anyway, I heard a story over the weekend that really hit home and put this whole “life” situation in perspective. Someone recounted how they were going through a severe bout of depression and during their struggle they drove to the top of Sandia Crest. As they gazed upon a seemingly bleak and brown landscape below, they noticed a thin thread of brilliant greenery and color in the valley below. This, of course, was the Rio Grande River in all it’s glory. And then it dawned on him that that beautiful and brilliant “oasis” was the lowest point in the valley. Oh the irony.
Sometimes it takes those low points in life for us to see the beauty that is not only before us but within us. Remember, holidays are quite often very difficult times for many people and they are often seen as low points in someone’s life. Here’s to hoping each and everyone of you find the beauty and your strength within.
Daryl, this is a beautiful post. I'll out myself and say that this holiday was difficult for me & I too have depression in my life. Your description of the brilliant greenery at the bottom of the valley--perfect. Thank you for the hope & the reminder.
ReplyDeleteOH, and HAPPY NEW YEAR! Those three crazy ABR Cheery-Os are out on their own, as you probably know. Miss the daily posts on their antics, but they're where they belong (save those humans who seem intent on destroying every acre on earth). Long live the Cheery-Os!!
ReplyDeleteReally like this one. Especially in current times, we need to set aside self-doubts and be strong - for our family, our community, our planet; as together we face a new virus and new restraints on what was a normal life style. The outdoors is our respite; where we can gather our strength for another day.
ReplyDelete