I sorted the laundry and turned to load the washing machine when my 2 year old spotted something "amazing" on the other side of one of the piles I had just created in the hallway. The special object had to be retrieved immediately and with no option to go around or under (well I guess under would have been an option but she didn't think of it) she decided to climb the mountain of laundry. I told her to wait and I would move the obstacle when I was finished with the washer but she was determined to get that toy right now! She grunted and groaned climbing up and then sliding to the side nearly hitting her head on the wall and then started up again. Although the laundry pile was not gigantic to an adult - a weeks worth of my laundry - to a two year old it was daunting. I finished with the laundry and turned to see her achieve her goal triumphant - exhausted but none the worse for ware.
I was proud of her for working hard for something she wanted but at first I thought, "If she had just waited I would have helped and she could have achieved her goal so much easier." And then a warm feeling came over me and a new thought entered my mind, "The challenge was good for her. It built strength and boosted the self esteem, although it could have been avoided more good came from not avoiding it. She is a stronger person now."
Sometimes our challenges are there because of our own impatience, not a trial or part of God's grand design (other than it's simply a human in a mortal world working through "stuff") but simply because we couldn't wait a minute more for Him to put all things in place to ensure that we get what we need and others get what they need also. But all challenges can make us stronger and more ready to face the next mountain but also to help us see how strong we really are and how much we can accomplish. I hope when I get to the other side of each mountain I cross I will be able to feel triumphant and proud and recognize a stronger me!
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