Recently on the podcast “We Can Do Hard Things“, the team had Oprah as a guest. Who doesn’t love Oprah? The episode struck a chord with me, but one takeaway stands out: the reminder that life’s happenings are teachable moments. Oprah emphasized that “everything that is happening to you is there to teach you about yourself.”
Even in her darkest moments, Oprah reflects on the lessons. Take online bullying, for example. Even Oprah has dealt with it. Imagine the courage it takes to ask, “What can I learn from this? How do I detach from this negativity?”
Practicing The Wisdom
Now, let me share an example of how I’m trying to live this Oprah-approved philosophy. Recently, I got this notification from the hospital – surprise, I owe a small fortune for an MRI over a year ago. Ouch, right? And it’s the holiday season, which is adding a sprinkle of stress. Cue my monkey mind going wild. I may have let out a not-so-kind word or two at the finance guy. But as he investigates, I take a breath and ask myself. What’s this situation teaching me? Can I detach and let the universe handle it?
Our lives are full of unexpected twists and turns, just like a piece of abstract art. In the moment, it can be hard to see the beauty. Pain and self-doubt can crash the party, but we shouldn’t future-trip. There’s a grand plan, a bigger picture. Every stumble is a lesson, a chance to grow.
If you can shift your attitude, you’ll see life is a masterpiece unfolding. It is important to trust. Believe. Have faith. Be present, focusing on the beauty around you, not the lack.
Push and Grow
So, about that unexpected bill? I trust it happened for a reason. A reminder to appreciate the privilege of getting the needed test, of having healthcare. Daily I pass park benches with people living there, I’m reminded – I come home to my bed. I have friends and family I can call on for support. I am not living on a park bench.
Life, you mysterious thing, you. Thank you for reminding us and pushing us to grow. As we navigate through these challenges, we find solace in the belief that every setback is a setup for a comeback and that the universe has a knack for turning difficulties into opportunities. So here’s to embracing the unknown, learning from the unexpected, and growing into the masterpiece that life is continually unveiling. Cheers to the journey and to changing the story!