I find that LENT never fails to give me a meaningful experience every time. It's like there are always realizations to take away.
And so lately, I have pondered on valuable learnings that are certainly good reminders to me as I work towards becoming a better version of myelf:
1. We choose who gets to stay in our Life. Be thankful for everyone. It's true they say that along your journey through life, you meet people who will either bring you blessing or lesson. Either way, to me, that person was meant to cross your path for a reason. As there are some who may just pass by, there are few others who stay because they decide to stay and you allow them to. Be thankful for everyone regardless of their purpose in your life.
2. Happiness is a Choice. Love is a Decision. You are responsible for your own happiness. If happiness to you means giving way to someone's happiness, then you are doing such a noble act. But you also have to take care of your own self. Regardless of your choices, find your own happiness. Love, on the other hand, is more of a Decision, an undertaking to continuously choose to love the other person amidst imperfections and difficulties. When you have made the decision to Love, you fight for it, you protect it, you nurture it.
3. Never let anyone or any circumstances dull your shine. Always emerge to be a better person. Life isn't perfect. You are not perfect. No one is. That's a given. Just that sometimes, unexpected events unfold and you are confronted with situations that challenge your kind of person. Always take time to process things first and aim to look at the bigger picture. When you finally realize what it is worth to you, then you know what to do next. Choose your battles. Know what is worth fighting for. More importantly, know what you deserve. Love yourself. Look forward to better days ahead.
4. Believe in the good of every person. To me, no matter how seemingly confusing the situation may be, I would like to believe that there is that good nature in every person. It is one thing to know where the other person is coming from, it is another to actually understand why one does the things he does. People are differently situated. Each one carries his own unique cross in life. Respect that we have different ways of coping up with challenges or difficulties. Someone reminded me to be gracious with people and their shortcomings. Just focus on the good of every person.
5. You do not need to understand everything now but trust that for everything that Happens God has His purpose.
Amidst the confusion and chaos, find peace that God is working for something greater in your life. Sometimes, God has to weed people out of your life because their part in your story is done. Either you have served your purpose in their life or they can no longer accompany you to where God is taking you next. Take every trial or experience as an opportunity for you to grow in virtue. Have faith that the BEST is yet to come!
I do believe that everything that we go through in life is intended to bring out the best in us. The choice is ours really if we allow our trials or challenges to get the better of us or we emerge to be better persons from them.
All these point me to a parable I personally love. I wish to be that pencil. And so I am now entrusting myself to my Maker's hand.
