I have developed an outlook for life that stands me in good stead through stormy times. And though I don’t choose the storms, I wouldn’t change the experience of weathering them. It’s when I’ve grown the most.
One of the most memorable transformations came when our son chose to enlist in the Marine Corps. The thought of having an 18-year-old son fighting in a war was not something I’d ever envisioned happening. And it certainly wasn’t something I would have chosen. But looking back at our lives since 2006, I can say that I wouldn’t go back and change the experience. Sure there are things I did during that time that I regret and would like to do over. But I’m referring to big picture things.
One of the biggest things God did during that time was to transform my pain into passion. When our son was at war, I was in pain. It was excruciating to imagine what he was enduring and experiencing. But with God walking beside me, I found myself moving from a place of pain to one of passion.
I want to share what I call the “5 Ps” of that journey. They may help you get through tough times:
1) Pain
It starts when we acknowledge our pain and turn to God.
2) Passion
God begins changing that pain into passion.
3) Process
It doesn’t happen overnight, and it can’t be rushed.
4) Productivity
Sitting and worrying is torture. When we let God use us, we find healing in activity.
5) Purpose
Finally, as we build on what we’ve experienced, we find purpose.
I realized that there were others who were facing the same challenges—many of them without the support I had. As I looked beyond myself, I could feel my heart swell with an urge to make a difference in the lives of others. And I learned a valuable lesson. If we let Him, God will take our pain and lead us to a place of purpose. I hope that each of you will experience such a transformation.
