Ingredients for a Second Chance at Life

Life is hard. We are presented with setbacks and roadblocks on a daily basis. The key to getting through these obstacles that we are presented with is how we deal with them.

First and foremost, I turn to God. I know that God will always be there for me when I need him. I may ask for something and not get the answer that I expected, but there is a reason for everything. God will lead the way, but when I come to the fork in the road, I will be the one that has to decide which path to choose. One path may be filled full of hardships. Each hardship will teach me a lesson that will make me stronger. One path might be roses and sunshine, but at the end there is nothing there. We will never know what that other path offers until we walk it.   I keep in mind that I have been given the gift of choice.  God will never lead me into difficult times, without a reason.  Yes, there is always a reason for everything.  My faith in God will keep me safe.

Second, I turn to my friends and family. My friends who listen to me rattle on and still encourage me. Friends that let you cry on their shoulder and give you a tissue to blow your nose. They make you laugh when the moment seems bleak. Friends that will laugh as your butt hits the ground, but will offer you a hand up.  And family.  I know anytime I am depressed my mom will listen to me, even if I am saying something that she doesn’t agree with. That means a lot to me to have her support, realizing she has more experience in life.  She has walked the same paths before me, and she has landed on her feet.   Her knowledge will help me grow.

Next, keep your faith in your own ability to cope with things that get rough. Somehow you have gotten to where you are now. Others have been there to push and help you along the way, but You, yourself got you there. Set dreams and have goals. Let them carry you to all heights. Never give in. All obstacles can be overcome with faith.

Last, Remain positive. You will pass by people every day that walk by you with their head down and a frown on their face. Why? Is their life so bad that they can’t hold their head up, look you in the eye and smile? Do they want pity? No, I think that they need friends or just someone to talk to. You never know what kind of day that person is having.  Be that person and take the first step. Believe in yourself. Know that you can do it. Don’t give up. Always keep that smile on your face.

The key ingredients for grasping a second chance at life? Let God lead the way. Accept that you need other people. Let your friends and your family be there for you. Keep your faith in yourself and your abilities and stay positive that there will always be a solution. There will always be that second chance.