A Step Forward to Resilience

Yes, it has been a while. I've been dealing with issues of resilience in my own life--physical, professional, financial, spiritual, you name it. But, with healing underway, I am back.

I'm still in the process of finding my path forward, but I do know that it is forward, always forward, not backward. It's okay to look back for direction or inspiration, but it does no good to stay in the past.

My plan to start is to share a quote each day (or at least most days) that speaks to me of resilience. I'll warn you right now, many of these will be from the Bible. If that bothers you, please just move along. I have no intention of preaching at anyone or passing any judgement, just drawing strength and inspiration for myself and sharing that with you, so I hope you'll stay.

The quote for today is from Psalm 147:

8 He covers the sky with clouds;
    he supplies the earth with rain
    and makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He provides food for the cattle
    and for the young ravens when they call.

10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse,
    nor his delight in the legs of the warrior;
11 the Lord delights in those who fear him,
    who put their hope in his unfailing love.

Yes, it is raining as I write this. I personally like the rain (most of the time!). A gentle rain like what is falling now is peaceful. And it means I don't have to drag out the hose to water the gardens. But the main point for me today is that God provides regardless of our individual strength. He delights when we put our trust in Him, but he provides for all just because we need it.

For me lately, I know that I can't do it on my own. I rely, certainly often not willingly, on family, friends, colleagues, and even "the kindness of strangers." [Aside: It never ceases to amaze me how much a kind word or smile from a cashier can brighten my day. I try to remember that and be the tiny ray of sunshine for someone else. Doesn't always happen, but I'm trying to do better!]

I'd rather be able to do it on my own, to have all the strength I need. But I can't. And that is okay. We are all in this together. When I'm weak, others are strong. When you are weak, hopefully I (or someone else more directly in your life) can be strong for you. It's okay to accept the support. That is part of being resilient--it helps you bounce back.