Yesterday a dear friend of mine went through a rather challenging experience with her brother-in-law. The specifics are not important – her resolve was.

She had a choice to allow his behavior and actions to affect her life and respond in a negative way or she had the choice to go beyond the surface, understand and grow from this experience.

Below is a little passage from “The Art of Happiness” by HH Dalai Lama

Shifting Perspective

Once there was a disciple of a Greek philosopher who was commanded by his Master for three years to give money to everyone who insulted him. When this period of trial was over the Master said to him: now you can go to Athens and learn Wisdom. When the disciple was entering Athens he met a certain wise man who sat at the gate insulting everybody who came and went. He also insulted the disciple, who burst out laughing. Why do you laugh when I insult you? said the wise man. Because, said the disciple, for three years I have been paying for this kind of thing and now you give it to me for nothing. Enter the city, said the wise man, it is all yours!

When we are ready our path will open to the next leg of our journey – the key is to be aware and to see the opportunities as they arise.