The title of this article is a quote which has passed across our eyes and ears repeatedly. However, regardless of its origin or exact wording, the meaning behind the statement remains the same: There is always hope, even in the worst of circumstances.
Just over two years ago when I started my blog, I had no intention of turning it into a full time venture, nor did I realize that was even possible at the time. I mean, a full time blogger? As a job? I didn't even know such a thing existed.
But, it does, and here I am. Though, not without challenges. Certainly not without worries, concerns, and the lows to balance out the highs. Lately, I often wonder if the lows may be winning the battle. But, I don't make it a point to talk about my personal challenges online because, well, it doesn't do a whole lot of good and I pride myself on being an eternal optimist.
Perhaps eternal optimism is what's gotten me this far in the first place. The prospect of eventual success worthy of the sacrifices made by pursuing writing full time and foregoing the security of a full time job (one of which I had up until around the time I started this blog). But, there are still days when I am tested and challenged to stay the course and not to jump ship. This may surprise some of you to hear because thankfully this blog has surpassed over 32 million page-views in its short lifetime and continues to grow strong.
But, lest we forget - the challenges persist. So, persist we must as well.
As we overcome each obstacle life brings our way, one day at at time, we develop and grow with each victory. We learn new lessons both about the world and ourselves. We discover who our friends are, who loves us for who we really are, and who will be by our side as we walk the dark road to the bright lights - where many more, undoubtedly, will be waiting for us.
We develop the character to handle the success waiting to reward our perseverance. Character never developed by those who are handed or born into success. Character that gives us depth. Appreciation. A brighter perspective when we do make it, because we earned our position in the world.
We trudge through the cold winters of life armed with nothing but our backpack full of dreams that will burst open come springtime - if we can make it there. If we choose to lay down in the snow and give up all hope, that backpack will remain forever sealed and we will never know what it held.
To live a life of fulfillment and happiness, we must pledge to ourselves to continue digging deeper until the treasure is uncovered. Until we can let out a sigh of relief and reap what we have sowed.
Just like the seasons change and the clouds give way to the sun, we must remember that so do our circumstances. No challenge, regardless of how intense, is permanent. We must always remember:
Tough times don't last, but tough people do.
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This post originally appeared on JamesMSama.com.