A Story of a Stone: How Challenges Refine and Change Us

How would your life be different if you became open to new information that can refine, improve, enhance your way of thinking, and empower your way of living? -Steve Maraboli

Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors. -African Proverb

Only through trials and tests of life is your true character developed, perfected and revealed just as a gemstone cannot be polished without friction. -Seneca

A Story of A Stone

What does the story of a stone have to do with health, wellness, and change? I picked a stone up from the sidewalk. I had noticed it when I passed it during a brisk walk. Even so, I had seen this same rock yesterday. I had kicked it as I walked along the same path. I picked it up as I passed it for a third time. There is nothing significant about this pebble. It is about the size of a half dollar. The rock is light brown and has a smooth surface.

The realization I made when picking up this rock is significant. First, this rock is smooth on its surface. That does not happen to most rocks. For a stone to become smooth, it must withstand a rush of water over time. The consistent water flow washes the har edges away over a long period of time. Or, someone would polish a stone until smooth. Either way, work is involved. I recognized this rock 3 times during my workout sessions. It had not left the sidewalk. It withstood the elements and the foot traffic all day and night.

How Challenges Refine and Change Us

This rock reminded me something very important. Life is not easy. That is not news to us. But, we do not realize the outcome. We resist challenges and get upset when we come face to face with difficulties. This rock helped me again realize the power of difficulty. We are much like stones that withstand the elements.

When we are faced with difficulty, we work to overcome it. We take steps to change and adapt to the challenge. Sometimes, we have to weather the proverbial storm. We have to withstand and persevere despite prolonged difficulty. Most of the time, we are not recognizable after these challenging times. We have been molded and strengthened by them. The rough and non helpful parts of ourselves are washed away. Our smooth and beautiful selves show through. We become something stronger and adapted.

Remember this as you face challenges in your life. they are not there to stop you. They are not there to hurt you. Challenges and obstacles are there to strengthen you. We become refined and changed when we withstand challenge. Commit to yourself to see challenge as an opportunity to get better and grow. You will approach life in a whole different way and get better through the experience!

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