This is the 7th lesson in the “Weathering a Storm” series. We should not simply bury our heads in the sand when confronted with adversity – this not only doesn’t help us, it often makes things worse. There is a need to face adversity, armed with knowledge and a clear and meaningful goal in life. The torchlight of knowledge casts light on potential ways forward, helps us to be more resilient, patient, and tolerant.

The previous lessons all provided answers or parts of the answer to living in truth:

  1. This too shall pass
  2. The serenity prayer – acceptance of the unchangeable, courage to change what is within our power and wisdom to know the difference.
  3. Do not become a victim of emotions and fears. Learn to hit pause, calm down, evaluate – “how can/should I deal with this situation or person?” Before I speak or act, consider what outcome I desire and then speak and act in a way to produce that outcome. Emotionally driven responses, choices and actions never produce good outcomes.
  4. Our choices determine our experience of life. Make good choices that produce great (or at a minimum, acceptable) outcome.
  5. You are an eternal spiritual being residing in a temporary material body in a temporary and changing world. Unrealistic expectations of life destroy inner peace and lead to anxiousness.
  6. Building sandcastles on the shore is not a viable strategy to live a good and happy life.
  7. Don’t bury your head in the sand – face trials and tribulations with the torchlight of knowledge.