CHAPTER 08

THE ADVERSITY ADVANTAGE

Adversity causes some men to break, others to break records. —William A. Ward

Talk about a diamond in the rough. Adversity is the friction that turns black coal to a brilliant diamond. Even a bed of roses is bound to have a thorn or two. Adversity happens, even to the nicest people. It is the manner in which we face our difficulties that define our character. Greet adversity with poise, strength, courage and perseverance. Think of it as a fruit with bitter skin. We may have to peel away the skin to enjoy the sweet fruit inside.

It is our perception of troubles that make them what they are. By anticipating the worst, our imaginations run wild. Worst-case scenarios abound. The reality is rarely as pronounced as the imagined threat. There is no ‘if’ in adversity, only ‘when.’ So plan for it by maintaining a margin. Keep your head above the fray. Maintain sight of your goals. Don’t get lost in the struggle or the struggle wins.

Recall a major adversity in your life. Imagine it vividly only make it small in your mind. Hold it in your hands. Look down on it. Study it with detachment. Let the feelings from the struggle arise and then close your hands, rub them together and let it go. You still profit from the growth that came from the bout with adversity, but in your mind, you can diminish the emotional and perhaps physical scars.

Life is mostly froth and bubble;

Two things stand like stone,

Kindness in another’s trouble,

Courage in your own.

—Adam Gordon