"I used to be very quick to condemn things that didn’t provide instant happiness or that I didn’t understand. When ‘bad’ things happened, I would call myself unlucky and further seal the burial chamber of my fate. "Par for the course", "I’ll never be successful", and "Why do these things always happen to ME?" became staples in my daily meal of Thought. Then, over the course of several years, as I experienced and learned and watched, I came to realize that I had been looking at these unwanted occurrences from the wrong perspective. Those moments that at first seemed ‘bad’ or ‘unlucky’ actually turned out to be instrumental in my development and growth!
     Life is a BLESSING. I have grown to believe that everything that comes my way each and every day is an OPPORTUNITY in disguise. I’ve also realized that the really great opportunities are the ones most difficult to see in the beginning. I constantly keep my mind on the alert, and all of my senses are tuned to search for opportunity in every situation - even those which we would normally label "misfortune". Train your mind to always ask the question, "What can I LEARN from this situation?" every time you feel beaten down or stumped. In fact, you should ask that question during your happier moments as well! Learn to absorb the experiences and lessons that Life sends your way each and every moment, and you will become strong in mind and spirit."

-- from Chapter One of "Inspirations"

"INSPIRATIONS" is our online book project, a compilation of quotes taken from the ancient book of Stoneclave, with commentary and reflections by Soulhunt'r.