Aside from devoted masochists, who wants to suffer? We don’t wait in line, eager to purchase extra suffering; most of us try to avoid it, chasing the lighter colors of life. But if we possess a serious passion for living, we need to look at the inspiring—yes, inspiring! —the experience of suffering. As an Israeli and a Jew, I should be very comfortable with the subject—and I am. Fortunately (or unfortunately), I come from a long tradition of suffering. Jews have mastered the skill of turning suffering into a spiritual goldmine and a source of inspiration. Being born and raised in that tradition, I believe that since we cannot avoid suffering, we should make the best of it. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing wrong with suffering. It seems to be an integral part of living: it tenderizes the soul and deepens our compassion; it inspires us to create, and, most importantly, it nudges us to transform. When our pain reaches a level we can no longer ignore, most of us begin to delve into the recesses of our souls in search of self-healing and self-awareness, and that is a good thing. Our suffering brings us to our wholeness; much beauty, art, and love spring from suffering. The image that comes to mind is one of a dark, bottomless sea of emotions pulling us under; roped by fear, we are sinking. It feels like we’re drowning. But there, in the midst of that darkness, if we can open our eyes, get used to the dark, find the courage to breathe, then sheepishly and tentatively begin to explore the deep and befriend it if we can do that, we transform into divers. We are no longer victims of the waters but explorers who begin to find treasures and enjoy the experience rather than dread and resist it. We need to respect our suffering as much as we respect our desire for happiness. Suffering, if we move through it with compassion and awareness, is a great mentor. It is, in fact, our guide to happiness. As we listen attentively to our suffering, we discover what our soul is crying out for. Our longings and needs tell us what’s most important to us. By listening closely, we can distinguish between addictive, compulsive cravings and true soul needs. Once we distinguish our needs, we can learn to nurture and guide them. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
— Helen Keller An excerpt from the book Available on Amazon by Nomi Bachar “Gates Of Power®” Nomi Bachar is a holistic counselor, coach, self-healing self-actualization expert, and bestselling author. She is also the founder/director of White Cedar Institute, and the creator of the Gates of Power® Method. Gates of Power® is a method and a program to self-heal, transform, reach your highest potential, and fulfill your purpose and goals. If you feel you are not fulfilled, know there is a way. Living is experiencing life with your whole self and being present. You Can Achieve that by taking a step to help yourself TODAY. Book yourself a 30-minutes free session with me.
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