Most people experience times of difficulty and seasons of hardship. What keeps you going when things get tough?
I know from experience, it’s hard to keep going sometimes. I live with progressive MS. Over the last three decades, the disease has gradually paralyzed me. As each level of disability comes on, I process feelings of anger and grief and find a way forward to a new normal. What inspires me?
My biggest source of external inspiration is my daughter. What kind of example do I want to set for her? I want her to have a mother who doesn’t crumble when faced with hard times. I want to be there for her. Other family members uplift and support me too.
I’ve received spiritual inspiration too. In my 30s and 40s, I was a Christian and involved with church volunteering. Even though I am less Christian, the same is true of my participation with Minneapolis Friends Meeting. Being wanted and needed helps me. Later, I began practicing Buddhism. Learning more about the dharma, meditating, and gathering with others, I gain strength. Community builds fortitude.
From Buddhism comes the notion of impermanence. Everything arises, abides, and dissolves. Our own lives are limited. Difficult times come and go. Rather than worrying about the future, I can rest in the present moment. That brings comfort and ease.
Lastly, I am sustained by my own stubbornness. There is something in my character that doesn’t allow me to give up. Though even my feelings of cussedness are impermanent. I have despaired in the past.
While my sources of external inspiration are clear to me, my inner resilience is more mysterious. I don’t know why I have endured, but I have.
Family, attitude and philosophy, and community are all sources of inspiration as we dance our journeys.
In your journal:
- For whom are you setting an example?
- Do you have a spiritual philosophy, practice, and/or community that inspires you?
- How has your character affected your resilience?