There’s Always More to the Story
We know nothing of the trials, sorrows, and temptations of those around us, of pillows wet with sobs, of the life tragedy that may be hidden behind a smile…-William George Jordan
There’s a social media trend; the culture of sharing “happy pictures and cheerful stories”. Alternately, there are those that share their struggles, crying moments, and defeats alongside their victories. I think the former is more popular than the latter. I stand to be corrected.
In reality, challenges aren’t separate from genuine success stories. When most people post photos, we see smiling faces. We don’t see people who:
- Have faced health challenges.
- Are facing financial challenges.
- Have relationship challenges.
- Who have failed many times and finally are now succeeding.
When we admire the fortunate, the rich and successful, the powerful, we should remember that there’s a story behind the story. These people have their backstories. When I joined this platform, I noticed Tim Denning quickly. However, I also noticed that he had his backstory. Genuine success stories have a backstory of challenges.
Now let’s shift focus. When we observe people with disabilities, what do we see aside from the obvious? Do we see how some manage theirs and still achieve great goals? Have we noticed those with fantastic attitudes? I bet we can learn a thing or two.
I am very conversant with illness as a patient. It has shaped my person and my practice. It’s taught me:
- Self-management
- Empathy
- Humility
- Advocacy
- To confront my mortality
- To reorder my priorities
- To live life as fully as possible
- It’s reminded me that life isn’t a bed of roses but sprinkled with thorns.
- Everyone’s journey is unique.
Takeaway
Most people, despite their successes, have fought battles or are fighting battles. These battles inform us, shape us, and strengthen us. It’s these very challenges that ensure real victory. They make us very human, more relatable and perhaps, more impactful.
P.S: Don’t go fighting battles that aren’t yours!
Thanks to Jason Edmunds.