Many times in my life, especially in my younger years, I would talk to my father about the "Many 'WHYs?' of life." Almost always, he would explain that there was cause and purpose for the experience and, while he hadn't had any formal training in philosophy, metaphysics, psychology, psychiatry or any other study around the mind, thoughts and emotions, he would usually return to me words that would stop me dead in my tracks and do one of two things:
- Open my eyes to a new and important life lesson.
- Help me come into a deeper realization of my personal growth, yet again, and bring me into a brighter awareness of my decided direction (goals), to keep me on track.
One of the most difficult lessons learned [beginning at the beginning of my teen years, introduced by my Dad] and continuing to develop, as I relate experiences of my past to friends, in times of struggle (either theirs or mine), is the one below, which was posted recently by my friend, DJ Dee, on her MySpace.
[The story is one that I am sure is copyrighted and such, so if one of you knows who I should give credit, please let me know...google.com did not help me with finding the name of the author. For the record, I am a quoter, not a copy-cat!]
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
[EDIT: I have been informed that the Author is either Brain A. "Drew" Chalker or the ever famous and routinely quoted Unknown, either way...Credit is due and I pay it to both.]
Hundreds of times...I have either told this story, in paraphrased-short or read a longer version, as above, and every time the hair stands up on my entire body. In recent months, tears come to my eyes - why - because I have had experiences where 'seasons' changed and returned. It's the most beautiful thing...one in particular, returned as a Christmas present and is brighter and better than ever. Each minute I spend with him is a learning experience, where I learn more about myself as he explains more about himself.
Additionally, I live in the apartment that was inhabited by one of nearest and dearest friends, who passed away. She was the most opinionated and least shy woman I have ever met, in terms of our relationship...She "told it straight with bluntness and motivational sarcasm!" She remains an inspiration.
Recently, I have had to opportunity to spend time with a new person, who has genuinely piqued my interest. Not only is he handsome, he's opening my mind to new lessons and while he makes me laugh, smile and brings upon me that feeling of peace - placing me in the position of not being aware of my surroundings, he's showing a little bit of clairvoyance. Who knows what the future will bring. 