October 30, 2016

How Opposition Moves us Forward:1 Example


Who likes trauma and drama? Who likes to feel pressed down? Nobody. But life is what it is: full of uncertainty. There are no guarantees or warranties on anything.

The good news is that trials can improve us. They can soften our rough edges and make us into new people. Let’s look at the troubled journey of an icon of the entertainment industry:


Fine, I’ll admit it; I’m a Trekkie.  I love everything about the show, but the original series will always be my favorite for many reasons. Here are some interesting facts:
  • Only 79 episodes were made. (Hard to believe, isn’t it?!!!)
  • There was a constant battle for funding.
  • Paramount Pictures wanted to cancel the show, but Desilu studios (Lucille Ball’s company) picked it up.
  • Some of the top stars’ egos caused friction, which still continues.
  • Creator Gene Roddenberry had a constant battle to win respect for his groundbreaking style of show.  He took many risks with the genre of science fiction. Roddenberry was also progressive in his social themes, such as: equality of race and gender. Just ask Nichelle Nichols, the original Lieutenant Uhura. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. talked her out of quitting the show because she was such a positive role model.


Leonard Nimoy

Out of the bubbling cauldron of chaos and uncertainty, a star was born. The late Leonard Nimoy is the original Mister Spock.  It is the role for which he will always be most remembered.  However, Mr. Nimoy’s professional credits and talents are practically endless. I recently learned that he was a skilled poet. Here’s an example of his work:

Because
I have known despair
I value hope.
Because
I have tasted frustration
I value fulfillment.
Because
 I have been lonely
I value love.

The Spiritual Science Research Foundation reminds us of the possibility for gratitude even in trying times.  In an excellent article, they describe how trials are actually a vehicle to becoming a better person:
  • ·        Replace personality defects with new qualities.
  • ·        Help us to rise above emotions and ego.
  • ·        Promote greater understanding and awareness.
  • ·        Teach important spiritual lessons.
  • ·        Help us to see God’s hand in everything.

My Conclusion

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”—James 1:2-4

My trials are moving me through the universe at warp speed. That means I’m moving so fast, I’m actually bending time. In addition, I have the stamina of an Olympic athlete. I really do.

Related Posts


Please see more about overcoming trials in my book, Accept No Trash Talk: Overcoming the Odds  


How are your trials making you into a new person?

No comments:

Post a Comment