Searching for the Lessons

Searching for the Lessons

When I sit down each week to write the blog, I sift through the interactions, situations, and experiences that presented themselves to me—looking for the message I most need to remember.

It's a helpful reminder that life is the ultimate teacher, never missing a beat when it comes to offering opportunities for growth and learning. Most of the time, as I reflect, the moments that stand out—the ones I remember most clearly—are the ones linked to discomfort, struggle, heartache, and resistance to “what is.” Maybe it's because those moments leave a deeper imprint.

The Meaning in the Mirror

And then there’s the drive to look so closely at every moment to extract meaning—as if I’m examining it under a microscope.

Some people believe that every interaction or experience that sticks in your memory has significance. Everything in our field of awareness is here to mirror something back to us that we need to see. And generally, the things that disturb us about others—or about situations—are the very things we need to confront in ourselves.

Oof. I know.

And yet… it’s kind of amazing. When I realize that everything is a mirror, it opens the door to a whole new level of self-awareness.

Shifting Focus: What About Joy?

So this week, as I was reflecting back—sure, I had many moments of growth, of holding on, of resisting reality “as it is,” and of trying to find equanimity even in the most trying times.

But what I also realized is that I tend to focus so intently on those hard moments that I often overlook the other side of the coin.

Yes, pain is a powerful teacher...
BUT so is JOY.

So are the moments when we surrender. When we find peace and presence in the now, regardless of the chaos outside of us.

For me, this can be as simple as being fully present to watch the sunset. Seeing a rainbow form after a passing storm. Noticing the moment of stillness—the pause—the awareness of my inhale and exhale when I get cut off in traffic, and finding gratitude for the awareness to respond instead of react.

Feeling the expansion of love when I get to give someone the longest, warmest hug I can muster.

The Lesson in the Light

These moments of joy, peace, serenity, and acceptance are powerful teachers in their own right.

So as you navigate the week ahead—or reflect back on the one that’s passed—notice the moments of peace and joy, and allow them to be part of your learning. Let them carry equal weight.

And if that feels nearly impossible—because yes, life can be really hard sometimes—just find one or two things to be grateful for.

Practice gratitude, especially in the face of adversity.

Because here’s the truth: life will always deal us a hand.
It’s not about the cards—it’s about how we play them.

This Week’s Invitation

So look for those small, quiet moments that bring a smile to your face.

Maybe… be the person who gives someone else a reason to smile today.

And I hope your lessons this week come not only from struggle, but also from joy. Because joy teaches too. 💜