There are times in life when things unpleasant and unexpected arise. It could be a sudden illness or accident, the loss of a job or loved one, any kind of life-as-we-know-it altering event.

I speak a lot about accepting or embracing change versus fighting it. Generally fighting change does no good except to intensify and prolong the agony. Change is change, and will not be denied. Yet also undeniable is the effect on our lives as well as the pain and stress these events often bring. So, how do we cope?

As we go through the more challenging times of life, it is important to embrace the things that center us. For me, the biggest element in that centering is faith. To me the best thing that anyone can do for themselves in trying, unpleasant, downright scary situations is to build within them complete faith that things will work out in accordance with the Divine plan. I hold this belief and the complete soul-deep knowledge that I will be okay – even when I cannot possibly see how this could be true.

When my heart is breaking, my body or soul is hurting, when I am scared out of my mind, when I am sure I can’t take one more thing – I hold this belief. It is what gets me through. Even though I know that I have no idea what “okay” might look like, I have learned to trust that this is true: I may not be the same, but I will be okay.

Faith is like a muscle, it must be developed. It begins with the acknowledgement that there is Something bigger than us out there. There are many, many paths to reach this Something and many different names for it. How you arrive at this understanding it is not as important as that you do arrive. Deep within that understanding, in the wisdom within you, is the key to peace in times of great stress and pain.

There are some who will disagree with me on this. For myself, I know it is the source of my strength to face whatever comes my way.

So today, I am stepping out in faith.

Please, comment. I'd love to hear your experiences. 
Be well and blessed.