How Trials can Lead us to Eventual Success

I am currently doing research for my next book. I have found that many celebrities, including authors, had to “go through it”. Many of them go through more trials than most everyday people can imagine. Yet, the result of those trials is eventual success. These achievers are forced to look deep inside their hearts and find a strength they never knew they had.

Lessons from an Iconic Author

I am currently reading J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic fantasy novel, The Hobbit along with my daughter. Technically, it is a fantasy novel, but some sources suggest that it is semi-autobiographical. Tolkien was a soldier during World War I. He shipped to France in 1916. He saw the horrors of war first hand. The author later recalled that junior officers were being killed off by the dozens.  Tolkien was removed from combat several times due to health problems.

In essence, the renowned author turned his horrific wartime experience into a detailed imaginary world that has stood the test of time. The characters in this archetypal world teach, and learn, many important life truths. One example is found in this quote from Gandalf the Wizard to Bilbo Baggins, the Hobbit “…if you want to get to the other side. You must either go through or give up your quest.” 

J.R.R. Tolkien went through war, made it to the other side, and launched a brilliant writing career. He is still considered one of  England’s top 50 writers of all time.

How I Have “Gone Through It”

I could have given up many times during my life, especially lately. I’ve spent thousands of dollars on medical and dental expenses. My cars are old, and they are often breaking down.

How I Have Benefited from my Pain

I have seen two main advantages from my limitations:

• I have had time to work on improving my writing because I have been unable to work a regular day job in some time. 
• Compassion and empathy have become my strong points for the first time in my life. I relate to other people who have “been there, done that”.

My Conclusion

This is a time of year when many people try to find reasons to be thankful. It might seem odd, but I’m grateful for my trials. My challenges have taken me to the next level of connecting with my incredibly strong inner self. I had to dig deep within myself to find my true power.