Progress

I kind of love a word that can be a noun or a verb. Either way, you pronounce it, progress is a powerful word.
I remember feeling like I was on the proverbial hamster wheel going and going and never getting anywhere. I was getting up to start the day with emotional exhaustion fueling me and an endless feeling of fear lurking over my shoulder. It seemed as though the mountain ahead grew larger each day. So what does one do? Quitting is not an option. Failing is definitely not an option. Reminding you of the “Going on a Bear Hunt” song? “Can’t go over it, can’t go under it…I guess we go through it.”
So we go through it. We carry the load, pick up the pieces, and slowly start to rebuild ourselves, our self-esteem, confidence, hope, goals, finances, opportunities, family, and lives. And then we begin to recognize just how far we have come.
We notice our progress. Throughout this experience, the muscles we have developed have given us the strength to continue forward – to progress- to proceed to the next challenge and continue to grow with each step taken.
Celebrate each small victory. Recognize the progress made and be proud of what you have overcome thus far. Be gentle with yourself when it takes a little longer because some of the hills we climb are a little steeper, a little more challenging, and they may delay you a bit. Continue to believe in your ability to preserver and to flourish.
There will continue to be obstacles in your path, but you will grow a little stronger and a little wiser with each one you encounter.
Progress.