By P Mohan Chandran
Have you ever wondered how the pearl in an oyster is formed? It's a product of a struggle. When a grain of sand or an intruder invades the oyster, it retaliates by encasing the offender in layers of nacre, producing a gem of great value. Isn't it striking how this marine metaphor mirrors our own human existence? Isn't life, too, an unending sequence of struggles and challenges, trials and tribulations?
Every human being carries a unique cross, their own personal struggle. Some battles are visible, etched in tired eyes or creased foreheads, while others remain cloaked beneath laughter and smiles. Beneath the surface of that seemingly calm exterior, we all grapple with our inner demons and dragons. Struggles, in all their forms, constitute the narrative of our lives. And, like the formation of a pearl, it's these very struggles that shape and mold us, forging our character, resilience, and spirit.
The famed inventor Thomas Edison, a symbol of perseverance, once said, "I haven't failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." After a staggering number of failed attempts, he eventually invented the light bulb, illuminating the world forever. The story of J.K. Rowling, the author who introduced us to the magical world of Harry Potter, is equally inspiring. Before her meteoric rise, she grappled with unemployment, poverty, and a failed marriage. These stories serve as beacons of hope, exemplifying how the struggles of life, as harsh as they might seem, can metamorphose into a ladder to success.
But it's not just about grand, monumental achievements. The daily grind, the constant hustle, the silent battles fought in the privacy of our minds – they all attest to our enduring spirit. We hide our battles, put on a brave face, project an image of contentment, because society has stigmatized vulnerability, dismissing it as a sign of weakness. This forced façade often leads to untold psychological distress.
Contrary to this societal norm, there is strength in accepting our struggles, in seeking support, and in nurturing our mental health. We are not islands, but interconnected beings who thrive on empathy, encouragement, and connection. As humans, we must learn to harness the power of words, the magic of a comforting conversation, and the healing of a genuine connection. No one is so strong that they can go it alone.
Yet, in this frenzied race of life, we often forget the healing power of empathy. In our quest for success, we overlook the struggles of those around us. Would it not make our journey more meaningful if we could lend a helping hand, a comforting word, or a listening ear?
Life is a battleground, yes, but every scar earned is a symbol of resilience, every stumble a step towards growth. Even in the face of adversities, the human spirit has proven time and again its indomitable will to rise, survive, and thrive. The tallest mountains have been scaled, the deepest oceans explored, the toughest challenges overcome – all by the sheer grit and determination of the human spirit.
Indeed, life is hard, but remember, so is the shell of an oyster that protects the forming pearl. The question then becomes, are we willing to embrace the grit in our lives, endure the struggle, to create our pearls of wisdom? Are we willing to accept that our struggles aren't a sign of our weakness, but proof of our strength? The pearl, after all, wouldn't exist without the struggle. Will your life's struggles propel you to your pearl of strength and resilience? That is the question!
Do you think struggles & sufferings make you stronger & wiser?
Yes, absolutely. Suffering gives us strength & wisdom.
No, sufferings & struggles make us weak and despondent.
© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
17062023
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