Hope in Opportunity

     When we think of opportunity we think of chances or adventures we were offered to take. Whether it's a new job or a new place to live, we have to choose. We have to look at our lives and decide whether it's going to work or whether we are going to back out. It is so important to take chances and opportunities because they might not come by again. But, what about the things that happen in our lives that we don't decide to have? You know, the things that we hate or question-Why me? Well this week a light bulb went off for me.
     I was driving in my car during my lunch break at work. I was in a lot more pain than usual. I can usually deal with it and at least put a face on, but that day I couldn't hold it back. During my lunch break I had a huge pity party and did what most girls do, I called my mom. Tears were shared and motivational thoughts were exchanged. As my mom wished she could be there with me and told  me how proud she was of me, I felt hope. However, I still hurt and no matter what, I had to choose to change the effect it was having on me.
        I went back to work. I smiled and worked hard. Standing on my feet wasn't the best but I knew I could do it. When I got off work I was driving once again and I got a wonderful epiphany. How blessed and lucky am I that I get the opportunity to feel pain and suffer!  I know that probably sounds strange to people but I just felt so blessed. I get to feel a very minuscule part of what Jesus felt. I get to feel empty and alone like so many people in the world feel. I get to help people in a way that I would never have the opportunity to help.
     I challenge everyone who is reading to take the difficult things and hard trials in your life and look at them as opportunities. Opportunities to grow, to show hope, and to lift others up. We can't do this alone and no matter the circumstance or the pain that you are feeling now, there is hope. There are amazing opportunities coming your way. Just look around you. They are everywhere.