I was browsing through my “Get Inspired” Pinterest board and came across this image. (Sadly, I don’t know the original source so can’t credit it.)
Trust your struggle.
I pinned it a year ago, according to the site. I was momentarily surprised when I saw that, because that was a few months after my darkest days. But that actually makes sense, because we can’t see the good in the bad when we’re in the dark. In those moments it’s just awful and overwhelming and all-consuming. When we’re really struggling, it’s almost impossible to think that we’ll be better for it.
During my darkest days, someone told me I would be grateful for my experience once I was past it. I didn’t agree then. I couldn’t see it. But it was true.
Some of the most inspiring (and inspired) people I know survived some sort of horrible experience and learned to love the lessons in it. Some found strength they didn’t know they had. Some appreciate life after loss. Some found their calling or figured out what’s really important to them.
My darkest days feel very long ago. Not that I haven’t struggled since then, but I have perspective now that I didn’t before and I don’t think I will ever sink so low again. And I have the lessons and the love from that experience.
I learned a lot from my struggle. I didn’t trust it at the time, but I can see it now, and I expect there are still blessings to be unveiled.
There’s beauty in the breakdown.
Trust your struggle.
