Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected. Sustainability is about survival. The goal of resilience is to thrive.
~ Jamais Cascio
“When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.”
~ Helen Keller
“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.”
~ Steve Maraboli
Life is not always easy! And again it is our own attitude and our own spirit that can change our own lens on life. Recently BMG hosted a holiday celebration. Part of that was a chance to make a donation and make a difference for an agency that supports people dealing with mental health challenges. This gathering also provided the opportunity to listen to a very special story that left us all with a clear articulation of resilience. A young woman shared her story of resilience. She found herself homeless, alone and ill! Step by step, with courage and support she lifted her spirit to an awe inspiring place of support, warmth, love, caring and wellness. It did not happen over night and the path was not always easy but people cared and I think most of all she cared about herself. Today this young woman can speak honestly about her journey with gratitude, love and goodwill! And when she speaks, if you really listen, you can here the magnitude of resilience.
We all have the choice to shape our lives through the lens of resilience! To choose a path, no matter how difficult, to build our life, step by step with our heart and soul. A path that builds on the good in our lives. It doesn’t mean that we ignore the sadness or illness or the challenges life might hand out. But it does mean to find the gratitude for the teachings and the outcomes of an attitude of resilience. Casico says ‘the goal of resilience is to thrive.’ Our guest was one example of resilience and her ability to thrive. Take the time, in this present moment, to acknowledge your own resilience and then look around and acknowledge the people around you! Find ways to encourage resilience, for yourself and for others. When we have our own resilient spirit in place, we can share that knowledge and practice, kindly and gently.
Written by Deborah Lavender, BMG Senior Consultant
Photo Copyright: Oleg Dudko, 123RF
