Have you noticed when weather people predict a major storm approaching, we scurry about to locate flashlights, candles, batteries, milk, bread, water and other staples? We secure items to provide us with the comforts we need to survive during a possible power outage, flood, snowstorm, or state of emergency.
We obtain shovels, sand, salt, and other equipment to dig out or rescue our neighbors. We elicit the aid of contractors from other states just in case we need extra support. We even call in the National Guard at times!
We do get ready. Sometimes we anticipate the worst disaster because, in truth, no one really knows what a storm will do to an area or the extent of the resulting damage. We can project but storms are erratic and can change direction in an instant. So we position sand bags, build barricades, secure windows with plywood just in case we face a life-threatening scenario. Constant media coverage features forthcoming weather news sensationalizing minute by minute potential changes: what might happen can cause great apprehension for people who need to re-adjust work schedules and alter school openings and closings.
Storms impact us greatly. We seek shelter, warmth, and provisions to get us through several days of conceivably being cut off from the world. We stock up on medicines knowing full well that transportation for several days might be impossible. We gear up to meet the storm full on!
And, yet, as we face our own life storms, how do we prepare? Sometimes, we hide; other times, we retreat. Many times, we find things to distract us—shopping, movies, drugs—anything to dull the senses.
However, we could brace for our own Nor’easter by soaring above it. We can recognize its arrival yet we can fly above it. We can get ready by recruiting helpful resources---organizations, friends, family, neighbors, and self-help books—even life coaches. We can prepare because we know that deep down we have the answers; it may take a different flight plan or pilot to help us discern our destination--to find solutions. We may have to fly higher than accustomed; that can be very scary but also exciting! We can use the storms of life to motivate, inspire, and transport us to a new adventure if we will allow it.
My thought for you as you face your life storms (and we all do) is be like the eagle-- be courageous-- soar above the tempests; find new ways to respond to your upheavals. You may actually find you love the ascent.
P.S. I would love for you to share what you encounter.