Growing-Stretching-Learning

There are several words and definitions that one should keep front of mind. I chose these three for this brief:

·      Growing: Becoming greater over a period of time; increasing.

·      Stretching: Intentionally pushing beyond our comfort zone.

·      Learning: Acquisition of new behavior as a result of experience and new knowledge.

These are not difficult words, yet at times we forget to focus on growth, we sometimes avoid stretching and many times forget to learn from life’s continuous lessons. We all know that life can be tough and that sometimes life hands us lemons. I used to say, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”  But my eldest granddaughter, Mia Angelyce, stopped me and said:  

“When life gives you lemons, make orange juice, sit back and let everyone wonder how you did it.”

Easier said than done right? But what a wonderful way to view the world. It is aspirational; demonstrates a glass half full perspective; and it uplifts the spirit when things look bleak. We can learn so much from teenagers.

 Others have said that life’s difficulties are merely lessons to keep us growing, stretching and learning. But seriously, I ask you--who needs so many lessons? Take the 2024 election: did we really need that lesson again? I have also heard that when we do not pay attention, the lesson repeats itself especially if we do not learn it the first time around and more importantly apply the learning. Not only that but the lesson will continue to repeat itself. Has this happened to you? Are there lessons that just keep returning in your life? Do you ever experience deja vu?

 Take a moment to reflect on some of the life lessons that have come your way. Have you grown, stretched, learned? Have you made changes based on your experiences?

 Remember:

 “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou