The most fervent prayers of my youth were for an easier life. Even until recently, I hoped for, asked for and sought to ameliorate suffering . . . my own and that of others. I used to think that all suffering was needless, and that struggle was some sort of punishment or repercussion. But I am grateful to be learning the value in conflict and the gift of suffering. Is there needless suffering? I don't know. But I do know that affliction is not only valuable, but necessary for growth.
There is a dangerous trap that I am guilty of falling into when facing adversity, and that is getting stuck in the pain and struggle. I am learning the value of sitting with the sorrow, facing the hurt and pain, but moving on with the lessons that accompany them instead of indulging the self-pity or getting swallowed by the grief. To know sorrow and loss is to truly feel and value joy and connection. To experience pain is to revel in freedom and pleasure. To acknowledge hurt and allow tears is to possess humor and laugh with abandon. Opposition is truly a gift - if I can accept it.
I no longer pray for an easier life, but express my gratitude for the life that I have. I no longer pray for an end to suffering, but rather that I am able to endure it with grace and move on. My greatest hope is to complete this life with as much grace and gratitude as possible.
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