I recently finished a book that was highly recommended by a friend. In fact, she made me borrow her copy, so that I wouldn't have an excuse not to read it. I started reading it a while back, but things were kind of crazy in my life, and I was already invested in a few other books, so I never finished it; and honestly, I didn't pay too much attention to what I had read thus far. The book is entitled "The Only Road North." Over the past week or so, I decided to commit to reading the book in its entirety- not so much from anticipation, but more because I figured my friend would like to have her book back at some point. This time, I was attentive to the author, Erik Mirandette. And, you know what? I couldn't put the book down! I know that's so cliche, but it's so true! Everyone should read this book! I won't babble on and on and ruin it for you, because I trust you will go read it on your own ;) But, there is one thing that Eric said that particularly caught my attention. I had to stop reading, and just think. At the height of all the chaos, Eric says:
"At times like this in life I usually find myself asking why. Why do people do this? Why do we invite trials, frustrations, and discomfort? Why do we intentionally put ourselves in situations that we know will push us beyond where we like to be pushed, to places we know will be tough?
Maybe, I have finally resolved, there isn't one simple answer, just a longing to be tested and proven. A desire to know that we can overcome whatever obstacle we may be forced to face. It is only when we are pushed past our self-perceived limits that we are able to clearly see our truest nature, discover our deepest selves; only then can we hope to improve upon what we find. To do so is neither safe nor comfortable, it is both dangerous and scary. But we warriors at heart were meant to live dangerously."
I've never journeyed on my dirt bike down the eastern coast of Africa through bandit territory, the jungle, and other life-threatening scenes, but I have endured, and will continue to endure, my own share of obstacles. Many of them, I would vouch to say I didn't "invite," but rather, they just sort of fell into my lap. These struggles, however, are how we learn our "truest nature." We aren't forced to learn anything about ourselves when we're comfortable. It's when we're pushed and put under pressure that our deepest self shines through. How do we respond when our back is against the wall? What do we do when there seems to be no way out? Do we crumble or conquer? Let's be conquerors! So, go get out of your comfort zone. Step out in faith. MOVE. Don't run away from those "uninvited" problems- face them head first... but don't forget to wear your helmet!
James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
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