The Beginning of Joy

When you can love the experience as a chance to grow, then you are at peace. When you can see that everything is part of the journey, then you can relax and enjoy. Often, in the thick of things, it is impossible to accept. But even then, you can start by saying, "Well, maybe someday I'll see that this is all for the best." Or, "Maybe this is helping me in some way I cannot yet understand." At the very least, try saying, "This is happening. OK. I can figure something out. I can take care of myself, given this particular situation." That's the beginning of full acceptance, peace, and joy.