All experience is an arch to build on. -- Henry Brooks Adams
We can learn something from any experience, even one that is painful. In fact, we often learn more from painful experiences than from pleasant ones. When we say or do something foolish or hurtful that causes us embarrassment or guilt, pain gives us a reason to learn and behave differently next time. It may hurt to be arrested for drunk driving, but the pain of that experience may be the beginning of recovery for someone who is addicted.
We can't change the experiences we have, but we can learn from them. Our life is a gift that comes wrapped in what we experience each moment. When we accept this gift and open it willingly, no matter what the wrapping looks like, we put ourselves in a position to discover unexpected treasures. We live life to the fullest, and we learn who we are as we grow. In that way, all experience is positive in building our new lives.
Today let me learn something that will help me grow in wisdom and maturity.
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'Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything.'
All can be seen to contain a paradox. From a negative a positive can be discovered.
Tough-love may hurt our self-esteem, yet it is the most honest and caring.
As long as we have an ego (false-self), our spiritual (true-self) will oppose it.
Well, that is my experience.
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"... unless this person can experience an entire psychic change there is very little hope of recovery." Dr. Silkworth. (Alcoholics Anonymous, 3rd Ed. p.xxix)
