We can accept that life will be hard, that we will not always get what we want. We can even learn to be okay with the fact that there are certain gifts granted to others that are inaccessible to us. This wisdom develops over time, engendered by strands woven from heartbreak, hurt and the awareness of growing up. It’s an understanding that life is unfair and we are all vulnerable to it. But what many of us can’t imagine is seeing pearls in what pains us.

Is it possible that the very experiences you now seek therapy for actually hold the key to a better life?

On an episode of “Oprah’s Next Chapter,” Olympian Greg Louganis said some of his most tragic and difficult experiences, “were the gems of [his] life.” It’s not something that comes instantaneously for many of us. Over time, if we allow ourselves the opportunity and space to heal, we may not just survive the event, but we may discover meaning and our life’s purpose behind it.

This week you’ll discover a similar theme in reading about the purpose uncertainty, disorganization and chaos has in creativity, or in your awareness of how technology is taking over your life. Maybe you’ll learn to accept your messy creative process, become more aware of what you’ve been neglecting since obsessing over your latest tech toys and find ways to improve your relationship with others.

You may not automatically find the jewels in what’s difficult. But here’s hoping these posts will set you on that path.

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