Thursday, July 9, 2015

Life Giving You Lemons? Better Get Some Sugar

Everyone knows the proverbial saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade."  The sentiment of the statement is beautiful... but is it really that easy?  I mean, c'mon!  Nothing in life is ever that easy.  Making lemonade requires actual effort.  Now I'm not suggesting that making lemonade is on par with rocket science but still, you want it to be good, right?  So let's get real, lemonade requires a formula -- you need the right ingredients, a great recipe, and time to let it chill.  Guess what?  Life is no different.  Making "lemonade" out of our crummy circumstances doesn't just happen; it takes effort.

First, you'll need the right ingredients. These are mine, but feel free to substitute or add in your own: accountability (don't pass the blame), positivity (but let yourself cry when you need to), honesty (no matter what the cost), a source of support (anyone who loves you), and trust (in yourself and your abilities, in the process of life, and in God).  The recipe goes something like this: each step of the way, mix in one or all of the aforementioned ingredients.  On some days you may only need positivity; other days you may find yourself needing support and a healthy dose of trust. 

Lastly, let your situation chill.  Turning your lemons into a sweet concoction takes time.  Be as patient as you can, both with yourself and your circumstances.  To quote the great philosopher Rousseau, "Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet."  (One too many food metaphors?  It just fit in so perfectly, I couldn't help myself!)

Life's lemons are a challenge, but the reward is personal growth.  And if you learn the formula, you'll find yourself excelling in ways you never dreamed possible.  So accept your lemons and vow to yourself to make the best damn lemonade you've ever had. 

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