Serenity

“Grant me serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.”

…It is not always easy to accept the things in our lives that are out of our control.  It is not easy to admit to ourselves that there are people, things, events, circumstances that we are unable to change.  It can be hard to remember that some things are inevitable or uncontrollable.  We may struggle to accept things that we do not like.  Things that may be painful and hard to endure.  Although we often know that many things are out of our control, it can be hard to accept them because so often, they are the things that we most desperately want to change.   

So when we struggle even to accept these things all together, how are we supposed to take one step further and accept them with serenity?  How are we supposed to come to terms with the things that we cannot change and do so with a calm mind and a peaceful heart?  Although I do not have the answers to this, I must say that this is where I find it most beneficial to remember that life just is what it is.  That it is better not to dwell on these things.  That it is better to invest our hearts and souls elsewhere, such as the things that we can change.

Just as the prayer says, it takes wisdom to know the difference between what we can and cannot change.  And this is quite true.  It takes wisdom to recognize what we have the power to influence, and what we must simply accept as it is.  Not only does it take wisdom to know the difference between these two things, it also takes courage to change that which is in our power.  To adopt a different perspective, transform how we think, feel, and act.  It can take courage to change the way that we relate, respond, and interact with the life that we are surrounded by.  It takes courage to look at ourselves from a new angle and reflect on what we might do differently.  And it takes courage to actually set those changes into motion. 

So today, if you are struggling with something in your life, consider this prayer.  Ask yourself, what about this is in your control?  What is it that you must do your best to accept with an open heart and an open mind?  What about this do you have the power to change?  And do you have the courage, the bravery, to do what it takes to make those changes?  Take a moment to think about these things, and I trust that you will find a bit more insight.  A bit more clarity, more wisdom.  And bit more inspiration.  A bit more courage. 

-El