What a polarizing phrase. Whether we’re speaking literally or metaphorically, this is usually two diametrically opposed words coming together, creating something that stops you in your tracks—not always in a good way.
I’ve been accused of being a “Pollyanna” most of my life, looking for the silver lining. Some would say I’m a product of WASP privilege, but there are many others with a similar background without the same outlook. That background didn’t protect me from personal loss, family struggles, worry, over adult children, and personal health issues, among a few. What those trials, struggles, and tragedies did was cause me to look at the world and my life a different way, searching for the blessings rather than the difficulties; in some instances, I’m still searching. They also put me on a different path than I thought I would travel (imagine my surprise). I’m not the same person because of how I had to adapt in order to prevail through the storms of life—sometimes it felt like a hurricane.
When the rains come, I can appreciate the growth and beauty left behind because I’ve weathered the storms and learned to look for the blessings. (Psalm 34)
July 7, 2025
