Finding the Silver Linings

After an extended journey of multiple injuries, the High Performance coach in me was inspired to share slivers of insight that I have gained along the way. What am I meant to learn and understand from this setback/ journey? For the first few weeks after my most recent knee injuries I had no idea how long the road ahead would be. And yet as I look back over the past 6 plus months my heart is lighter, knowing that I have found meaning and the lessons in this season. There have been many silver linings.

I felt there were too many lessons not to share. As a coach I help my clients find greater clarity and meaning in their lives, which is a great privilege. And now here I am, seeking to gain greater clarity and meaning about my own life challenges. I hope that some of my words might resonate - the speed-bumps of life that we all encounter can carry so many rich, valuable lessons when we are willing to slow down and truly listen to that inner voice.

1.    I am stubborn to a fault. A terrible fall, lots of pain. I waited far too long to convince myself it was time for MRIs. To believe it was important, to believe that I was important and that it was okay to succumb to the pain.

2.    I learned it was possible to ask for, accept, and receive help. For 60+ years I have prided myself on being independent and thinking I can and should do it all by myself. Ah Lucy, accept the gift of friends and family offering their kindness and support. A beautiful experience when I allow it!

3.    As a successful athlete for most of my life, I am terrified to “lose” my fitness, my health, my strength and my body as I know it. I have navigated life through my body. This invites a different perspective. Not how does my body look, not how does it perform, but rather “what does it need?”

4.    So interesting… for as far back as I can remember my daily ritual for lunch was a salad, which I loved. And suddenly I don’t. My body deeply craves warm foods. So my lettuce wilts, feeling ignored as I create soothing warm lunches instead, which my wise body knows it needs. Fascinating

5.    A lesson, a gift, a true silver lining-through the healing journey I realize I have deepened my relationship with my husband and with myself.

6.    This journey has taught me there is much I can’t and won’t control. So I release the grip and trust what unfolds. I focus on what I can control; my mindset and outlook each day.

7.    Came across this great quote, don’t know who to attribute it to but it sure fits: “Butterflies rest when it rains because it damages their wings. It’s okay to rest during the storms of life. You will fly again when it is over.” LOVE this!

8.    Realized I couldn’t go to the grocery store and push the cart. Asked Jim to go with me. Turns out they had a wheelchair with a basket. How perfect. He pushed me like we were little kids, I laughed and loved the adventure. And now that is our weekly Sunday morning ritual, our “date”. So simple and wonderful.

9.    I was raised to always say “I am fine thank you” …. and that is how I have gone through my life. Until now. I am not always fine, and I found the courage to say so. Quite liberating.

10. I choose joy.

Have you had a setback, detour or life event that has been a challenge? If you look with curiosity and compassion, there may be many silver linings that await you.