You Can Do Hard Things
This is your daily reminder that you can do hard things. You have the inner strength to get through the tough times, and you will make it through to the other side in one piece.
Last term when going through a particularly rough patch, I updated my phone wallpaper to this bible passage ‘Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go’. Joshua 1:9. By just simply reading the verse each time I tap on my phone it gives me strength and a reminder that I have got this.
Last week my boyfriends’ dog was diagnosed with cancer in her lungs. We had an inclination prior to taking her to the vet as she has stopped eating over two weeks ago. Once she was eating her breakfast as well as our others dogs breakfast if she could get away with it, now nothing. She has had difficulty breathing and is losing weight rapidly. It is an emotional time for us. One I was not really prepared for. But after the bucket loads of initial tears, I can now look at Dusty and enjoy our last days together. Dusty has always loved her pats and paws you to get more. My afternoons and weekends are spent giving her as many as I can. I have no guilt, I feel confident that she knows she is loved and we loved on her every day. It is going to be a very difficult decision to make the call at the right time but we can do it and will face this tough time together which gives us peace.
In New South Wales, we have been in lockdown due to the pandemic for over a two month period with the potential of it being for three months or even longer. The strict restrictions mean missing out, but it is important not to get stuck in that feeling of misery or deprivation. Instead, we can redirect our energy into different aspects of our life. Despite it being an uncomfortable time for everyone. We can do this. We can stay at home, we can get the vaccination, and we can put up with this for the safety and wellbeing of others if we remember this is just for now, not forever.
My best friend turns 40 tomorrow. Reaching that age is a big accomplishment for both of us, after two of our best friends passed away twenty years ago. To not be able to celebrate as we would in the past with a trip away is a hard pill to swallow. It doesn’t feel the same. A card in the mail doesn’t feel special enough. We will get to celebrate though. We will get to go away one day. For now, we have to accept that it is what it is and look forward to the time when we will be able to be together to celebrate.
Not all relationships are made to last. Making the difficult decision to end a relationship, possibly even breaking your heart in the process is a daunting task. But you can do it. You know you deserve better. Your life is not over because one relationship has ended. It is not a failure on your part. It is life. Accepting your destiny and knowing there is better out there for you, can give you strength during this rough period of your life.
Everyone is a teacher. That is something I relearn every day. Everyone is put in my path for me to learn something from. Yet, you have to be aware of this. Do not resist any new learning opportunities. Individuals are often sent into your life when you are in need of a reminder or lesson. If you can find the positives, you can find a way through this time.
How you can do hard things;
tend to what matters
staying connected to others
be honest with yourself and others
live with no regrets
remember the phrase ‘life is too short to be miserable’
look after your body and keep moving
protect your heart - watch conversations, watch the stories your mind wants to tell you, watch your self talk
We are resilient, empowered people navigating tricky times. Do not be hard on yourself.
Are you currently facing a tough time or can relate? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.
