Earlier this week I read a post from PR Guru Shannon Cherry which read: I need to stop beating myself up cuz I’m not like this person or that person. I need to embrace and respect me! I don’t know what prompted the post but it generated tons of responses from people offering words of encouragement.
Shannon’s words struck a chord with me because during my moments of weakness I have also compared my life to others and questioned the would’ve, should’ve, could’ve….
This week has been a serious challenge to my entrepreneurial spirit. With hubby out of town all week I have been the single, primary caregiver of my three-year-old grandson. I’ve been feeling like my life has been rearranged for me without my permission. I’ve had to put clients on the back burner while committing myself full-time to my grandson’s needs and wants. Challenging is putting it lightly!
I couldn’t help thinking about some of my friends who seem to be moving along in their lives just fine without the added pressures of live-in grandchildren, weekend husbands, health issues and so on and so forth. But here’s what I’ve learned:
Where you are in life right now is where you’re supposed to be. God has a specific plan and purpose for your life. It may not seem rosy in comparison to others but it’s your unique life.
Comparing yourself to others serves no purpose because you have no idea of the trials and tribulaitons of another. Most people put up a front and disguise what’s really going on in their worlds.
The challenges you’re faced with in life are designed to make you stronger and wiser. If you learn nothing from your challenges, you are doomed.
Children and grandchildren are a blessing from God. Some who have none wish they could fill your shoes.
Play the hand you’re dealt to the best of your ability and stay in the game to win.
February 14, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Thank you, Beverly, for being so open and sharing your personal doubts and struggles. Through your courage to speak out, you give others strength. Right now, my life is comparatively smooth but there’ve been many, many times when it wasn’t. I wish I would have had your grace and perspective during those times.
I’m certain that you adore your grandson and I’m also thinking that tending to his needs must take a great deal of your time and energy. However, you are a woman of great strength and I know you’ll play the hand you’re dealt with to the best of your ability. I admire you greatly and feel blessed to know you!
February 14, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Beverly.
Thanks for sharing also. I decided just a few months ago to be much more open about what’s happening in my life, personally and professionally.
And that’s why I think that Tweet so resonated with others. We’ve all been there… And will be again. That’s part of what makes us human.
Frankly, the decision to start being so public was that I was sick of the spin and lies others were telling us. Sometimes I got caught up in not being authentic and myself because I didn’t want to seem weak. It’s ironic. Because being real has made me stronger.
Now I live my truth… Always. And yes, sometimes it can be painful. And yes, sometimes others feel insulted and get defensive. But you know what? I believe it’s helped me hone into my real passion: equality and fairness. (Which is why I left broadcasting and went into PR in the first place)
Thanks again for living your truth too.
February 20, 2010 at 5:43 pm
Have you also noticed that when you share bits of yourself not only does give you a sense of freedom you didn’t have before, it also endears you to the people that you are sharing other aspects of your life with such as your professional part.
thanks Beverly for always being REAL!
Heidi
February 25, 2010 at 3:18 am
Beverly,
I admire all that you do. You do it all so well, and with passion. Jarod is very fortunate to be raised by you, because you have wisdom that only a grandmother can impart to a child.
Some times the road is bumpy, and other times its smooth. The bumps make us appreciate the smooth.
April 6, 2010 at 4:45 pm
One of the greatest gifts we have here living in the US is our right to speak. Speaking up and speaking out is enough to help just one single person get through their own “mess” with a message that matters. Whether you are an advocate, a friend, a parent or a mentor — what you have to say truly matters!
http://www.proseproject.wordpress.com