The Blessing of Adversity

A few years ago I was speaking in the Galapagos Islands and witnessed the eruption of the La Cumbre volcano. As the lava flowed down the sides of Fernandina Island, it destroyed everything in its path. Animals and plants perished as the island’s landscape was ravaged by the volcano’s fury.

The next morning we landed on the opposite side of the island where life still flourished. We could see the steaming volcano, but now had a very different perspective. And as I looked at the geography of the island and that of the entire archipelago, I realized that millions of years of volcanic activity have not destroyed the landscape as much as they’ve changed it. And throughout all of this change, wildlife has endured.

Adversity is an unpleasant but necessary part of our growth. During times of prosperity, it’s easy to take things for granted. When we’re no longer challenged, we stop challenging ourselves. We get lazy and feel entitled to the status quo. A problem is a wake up call – a call to action that often improves our life.

We see the benefits of adversity all around us. Naturally occurring forest fires clear out excess brush, extending the life of the forest and preventing larger fires. Muscles damaged during the stress of weight lifting heal back bigger and stronger. Countless people have had marriages and careers crumble, only to find themselves more happily married and employed later.

Helen Keller once said “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

This principal has been expressed for centuries through countless clichés, such as “No pain, no gain” or “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” These sayings are overused, but the wisdom behind them is golden.

Challenging times such as these are unpleasant, but there’s a good chance they’ll propel us forward. Stay strong, and look for the lesson.