Earlier this year I wrote a piece on overcoming adversity that has caught the attention of many. Obviously the goal, if possible, is to overcome adversity because it gets in the way of progress, success and as I’m told…happiness. The truth is that there is no way to avoid adversity. Adversity comes with the package of being a human being, living on this planet at this time.
So what about adversity and it’s impact on those facing illness? Without question, chronic and life-threatening illness are adversities. It is one more thing added to the heap that must be confronted because the other options don’t provide favorable outcomes. As with any other type of challenge overcoming illness adversity requires perspective, perseverance, and support. It is not a solo venture. Trying to tackle this “bad boy” on your own will lead to devastating results including physical, emotional and spiritual exhaustion. You want to avoid this at all costs because the key to overcoming any health related challenges is the need for stamina on all levels. The mind, body and spirit must develop stamina to make it through these challenging episodes.
I understand that there are plenty of other considerations given our current economy, our worldwide political circumstances and the transition of our President, but somehow we have to walk towards the path of stamina. If you read or watch the news you know about the Cholera outbreak in Southern Africa. Cholera spreads as a result of unclean drinking water. The question in that region is, “Is it possible to not get sick given the current environmental circumstances?”
Living in a western, industrialized culture gives you a leg up in overcoming health related adversity. The next question is “Are you doing all you can to maximize your healing potential?” You can take the best medications and have the best doctors but if you aren’t compliant with your treatment or you aren’t getting enough rest and you’re eating poorly how can adversity be overcome?
There has to be a meeting between our interior worlds and our exterior worlds. When the two meet and create an alliance amazing things can happen. What are you doing to overcome adversity in your life?
Pilgrim Pathway/Surviving Strong 