This is how we grow: by being defeated by greater and greater things

“This is how we grow: by being defeated by greater and greater things.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, 18th/19th Century Austrian Poet

Image from Unsplash by Pau Casals

We grow not when life stays easy, but when it stretches us beyond what we thought we could manage.

Every defeat can become a teacher, if we are willing to listen.

The setback that bruises our pride may also build our character.

The challenge that humbles us may reveal strength we did not know we had.

Growth rarely comes from comfort; it comes from resistance, struggle, and the decisions to keep going. As the obstacles grow greater, so do we, if we refuse to quit.

Defeat is not the end of the story. Sometimes it is the very force that shapes us into wiser, stronger, and more resilient people.

EXERCISE:

Here are five top books that capture the wisdom in today’s quote, for your consideration:

Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl
The Obstacle is The Way by Ryan Holiday
Daring Greatly By Brene Brown
Grit by Angela Duckworth
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron

Complacency will not lead us where we want to go

Complacency will not lead us where we want to go. It is necessary to stretch to reach the upper shelves of life.

—Calm App Reflection

Image from Unsplash by Kelly Sikkema

Whether it’s their favorite toy, a snack, or a TV remote, placing items out of reach of our grandkids is no longer working so well. Our 22-month-old granddaughter and 5-year-old grandson have discovered all sorts of climbing strategies to reach the upper shelves mom and dad prefer to remain unexplored.

Our little ones are clearly stretching and reaching beyond previous limitations. Although we admire their initiative and creativity to reach new heights, we need to be ever more vigilant in our efforts to protect them from the downsides of gravity.

EXERCISE:

Where in your world are you currently stretching to reach the upper shelves of your life? Where have you become complacent in your world, accepting what is being offered within arm’s reach?