Dust Yourself Off, Get Back Up, Try Again.

Thoughts on navigating life's challenges, gaining new perspective, finding the humor and the beauty, building resiliency, and faith in the future and yourself.

A new perspective

My path hasn’t always been clear and often times I have found myself lost, stuck, and confused—the only way forward requiring me to stretch my perception beyond any comfort level that I had previously experienced. I’ve been faced with many obstacles that have caused me to alter my path, change directions, retrace my steps, and even go back to what felt like the starting line. I’ve reached destinations only to find out that I didn’t have the right tools—I didn’t pack the right stuff. In these moments of disappointment, frustration, and defeat, when it seemed impossible to take another step forward, I discovered hidden depths within myself that I never knew existed. It’s in these moments that I have discovered my own strength, courage, resilience, and tenacity. These pivotal instances have transcended their difficulties, serving as catalysts for personal growth, as I strive to become a better human and embrace these new found perspectives.

Build community

Along my path, I have been fortunate to encounter doctors, healers, teachers, friends, acquaintances, and more, who have extended their unwavering support. They have provided me with “shelter”, “nourishment”, and a “comforting place to rest” as I journey onward. They have selflessly “lent me their possessions”, knowing well that I most likely won’t “return” them. Their invaluable wisdom, shared losses, and celebrated victories have encouraged my path, giving me the hope and faith I needed when there seemed to be none left.

As I reflect on these amazing people, I realize that while some have veered off onto different paths and pursued their own adventures, their impact continues to shape who I am. The gifts and lessons they offered me are forever etched in my heart and mind. I can't help but express my deep gratitude to all the amazing people who have had my back (or didn’t) throughout this journey. I wouldn't be standing here today if it weren't for this incredible community of individuals who have shown up for me (or haven’t) every step of the way.

You are not alone

I share this for those that feel alone and isolated—those that have felt what I’ve felt—total despair, deep grief, and sadness.

I get it. I’ve been there and I’m sure I’ll be there again someday, that’s life. But know this… I see you. I feel your pain. Your suffering. Your despair. You are not alone. I appreciate being seen and heard and I want you too, to also feel seen and heard. There are so many of us who have been there/are there! When you’re in the thick of it, it’s hard to imagine it ever getting better. When life knocks you down, whether by choice, chance or the combo of the two, you have to get back up. I know how hard this can be, but it’s so important that you find the strength and motivation to do just that—get back up. Ask for help, take the hand, give yourself a mental pep talk, do whatever it takes to get yourself back up. One foot in front of the other, one step at a time, get back on your path.

The best part in choosing to get back up!? Every single time you decide to rise up, to fight, and to keep pushing forward on your own path, you're making some pretty courageous choices. You’re choosing courage over fear, trust over worry, and surrender over resistance. Even better… you become the leader of your own journey, refusing to let life and circumstance dictate your path. The power is yours.

Find laughter

When all else fails, find the humor in the situation. I know that it’s hard to find the humor in life at times, and sometimes, it’s just not the right time. But, when the right time arises, when you can lean into a good laugh, embrace it! Embrace the humor in every situation! It’s there, maybe not at first, but eventually you’ll see it. At first, it might not feel funny and that’s OK. Overtime, with a little patience and love, you’ll find it and be thankful for it. A good laugh really lightens any load! Laughter is a way to release pent up emotional energy in your body in a more pleasurable way. Laughing is fun! Life can be anything but fun at times, so a little laughter in life can be exactly what is needed.

Find the beauty in everything

A positive outlook has been an absolute game-changer. Again, just like humor, it may take a moment to see the “bright side”. But have faith, it’s there. I like to picture myself holding a kaleidoscope as I venture on my path, taking pause at times to take a look at my surroundings and what lies ahead. When what I see isn’t making sense to me, I spin my kaleidoscope and try on new perspectives. I spin the scope until I see something that I can make sense of—something that feels better in my mind, body, soul, and heart. Once I see and feel that shift, I run with it. Other times, I liken my perspective to putting on a new set of lenses. And sure, I’ve been told that I have a tendency to choose the “rosy” colored lenses. But that has been a gift that I welcome, my ability to find the beauty in even the most treacherous situations and places is a gift.

Acknowledge your wins

I can vividly recall those chellening moments in my past. I can remember where I was, how I felt in my body, my heart. I can also remember what it felt like to overcome these times of challenge—AMAZING. Triumphant. Proud. Those memories, the memories of me persevering, are the very fuel that ignites my desire and instills a sense of hope within me, assuring me that I can go on. That I can get through this. These memories remind me that I've got what it takes. You see, by consistently choosing to dust myself off, I've nurtured a deep trust in myself, a trust that bolsters my courage to forge ahead and set my sights on new goals. I find solace in the knowledge that when challenges and obstacles come knocking, I possess the necessary tools and resources to overcome them—I can find comfort within the discomfort and move forward. I not only have a full toolbox, I know when to use all the tools inside.

Trust in your toolbox

Yet, even with this self-awareness and belief in my abilities, as I mentioned, there are still moments of doubt that creep in. Did I make the right choice? Should I have done “x” instead? Is this even working? Does any of this matter? In those uncertain times, those times that I question everything, I remember my toolbox. I don’t always seek new tools. Sure, it’s fun to learn new things and gain new tools, but it’s only fun if you can actually remember how to use those tools. A bunch of tools in a box that you’ve hoarded over time won’t help you. Take the time to learn how to use the tools you’ve gathered. Once you feel comfortable with those, add new ones…

The core ingredients of the recipe remain unchanged. I must find ways to nourish my mind, body, spirit, and heart. When I revisit those tried-and-true practices that have supported me in the past my peace, confidence, and clarity return, and I stand tall, ready to face whatever lies ahead with open arms. Most Importantly, I know that I will be OK. And you so will you.

Resilience

Resilience is earned through experience. But if you never choose to join in on the experience of life, to take an active role in the path your are walking, as to protect yourself from discomfort then you are missing out on the beauty of life! Get dirty. Take risks. Fall down. Earn some scars. Build some character. You will get back up and you’ll try again. And again. And again if you need to. That is life. There is no limit in the number of failures we can endure… the only failure in life is failing to live, failing to try, to take the chance. So walk your path, wherever it may lead. Find the support, look for the beauty, find the laughter, harness your strength, and trust in your abilities. You are courageous. You have what it takes. We all do. So, keep walking—more than likely, there is a beautiful vista waiting for you on the other side. Trust me.

When life knocks you down, GET BACK UP.