Life

So many things have gone wrong-and so many things have gone right.  So many times I’ve encountered failure, rejection, loss, pain-yet, a few more, I’ve enjoyed success, love, gain and happiness.  I can only be thankful for it all.  Yes, it’s November, but no, ‘not only writing this because Thanksgiving is approaching.  Honestly, I’ve been reflecting on recent personal events that in past times would have destroyed any optimism and trust left within me.  Surprisingly enough, I still believe there is much to look forward to.  There are more than enough reasons to press on, and to face life with a smile.  Scars from the past have helped me learn and grow stronger.  Looking back at moments when I let hours, weeks, months, or perhaps years be filled with sorrow-times when hardships would take over my emotions...I now realize that life didn’t end there.  There was an “after” even for those moments when it seemed like there wouldn't be.  There was an end for even most difficult times.  Better yet, all of that prepared me for today.  Now, don’t get me wrong.  Life is long (God willing).  I’m not saying I’ll never again cry over negative circumstances, but as of today, I’m thankful.  I thank God for the good, for the bad, for what I have, for what hasn’t been granted to me.  I’m thankful He’s allowed me to make mistakes, and to cry, and to sob...and then to get up from the dust, let Him confort me, and simply go on.  What else can I ask for?!  Every tear and every smile have been part of this gift called “life”, and they have both played their part in the precious treasure called “experience”.