It is easy to be spiritually positive and philosophical about life when things are going well. Even when exposed to life’s misfortunes from a distance--distant relatives or acquaintances--it’s fairly easy to conclude that life is bringing them
experiences appropriate to their lives. But what do we do when misfortune strikes close to home,to us or to our immediate family? And how are we to react to misfortune from several directions all at once?What are secrets to surviving and thriving in midst of life circumstances and situations which seem unfair and undeserved? Our ability to deal successfully in such situations is key to peace and calm--the joyous life.
My initial reaction to bad events is to take action-do something. But key is not what to do, but who to be. Life is bringing circumstances we face for a reason. You may not understand reason immediately--maybe not for some time. But assume there is a reason and it is perfection of life, so embrace it.
Then step back and observe what is happening from a distance. Pretend it is one year later and you are looking back at current situation. Remember that this is not end of world--you are an immortal soul and what is happening is simply experience of human life.
Listen to story your mind is telling you about what is happening. Is it an oft-repeated theme? Are you being victim, loser, struggler, martyr, or villain? Is this a script you have written and played out before, perhaps many times? What payoff accrues to you from living within this story? Be honest. There is a payoff to an often repeated story line, or you wouldn’t be living it over and over.
