“We must look for the opportunity in every difficulty instead of being paralyzed at the thought of the difficulty in every opportunity.”
— Walter E. Cole
When I changed jobs, my commute became longer. A 15min drive became a 1.5hr metro ride. As a new metro commuter, I decided to witness what my fellow metro mates were doing to pass time. Some read, napped, listened to music, while others looked impatient and anxious. I had a hard time adjusting to my longer commute. I came to the realization that I could either choose to fight my commute or embrace it. I made the latter choice. Thanks to my metro commute, I rediscovered the joy of reading. I realized, for the first time, that I had been given a gift, the gift of time. Time, which was not interrupted. Time, which did not need to be shared. Time, which was mine for the taking. There have been days, when I am so involved with the story, that I have nearly missed my metro stop.
Additionally, if I happen to be so lucky as to catch a seat on the metro ride home, I rest. I find that, even a few minutes of down time, makes me refreshed so that I may hit the ground running when I arrive home. I am glad that I decided to make the best of this situation.
What do you see in difficulties?
Perspective of Hope 
February 21, 2011 at 6:42 am
Dear Sean,
I agree with your handling of your life experience. My take on this teaching of acceptance is basically the same colored with my individuality. I have learned to say YES to what is. No matter what arises in any moment of any day, I yes it. Saying No to what is, is apposing life, which creates a negative energy but not changing what has already occurred. So by saying yes to life one embraces it instead of opposing it. And, after a while all of the sudden Life, God begins to yes back to you and life becomes a celebration.
Truth, Simplicity Love and Service.
John Gallo