In the darkest night

When you live life awake and aware, you find life lessons all over the place. Now, I will confess that I spend plenty of time unaware, too. But more and more I'm trying to notice things in and around me.

So last week when friends and I were enjoying a couple days of shopping and exploring the lovely town of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, I saw a chalkboard sign outside a coffee shop with these words: "Do not let your difficulties fill you with anxiety. After all, it is only in the darkest night that the stars shine more brilliantly."

Several of us noticed that sign—and had a good discussion about what it said. Who would have thought we'd ponder deep thoughts on the street outside a java shop?

I have spent far too much time worrying about things that might never happen—in fact, that most likely never will happen! I have wasted lots of time letting my "difficulties fill me with anxiety." It is also true, however, that in the darkest of times I've experienced, I have seen others step forward with help and encouragement in ways I could never have anticipated. They were stars who shone most brilliantly when my night was darkest. When things seemed extremely bleak to me, I saw light shining. It didn't matter that at times the brilliance was a tiny star. It was light in the darkness. It was good news in the face of difficulty.

If you're experiencing a dark time right now, keep your eyes open for the brilliant stars. For surely they are there. Please contact me if you'd like to talk about a dark time right now. I am happy to provide a no-obligation, complimentary coaching strategy session.