Categories: Hazel Rosetta Smith,
We have all made mistakes, worked through disappointments, and fallen into a dark pit of unexpected setbacks. As difficult as it was to climb out of the rut that we found ourselves stuck in, somehow, we made it through. We found the light at the end of the tunnel, and it opened the door to crawl back to level ground.
You worked hard for a promotion, and it did not happen. Someone less trained and with less experience landed on the spot. To make matters worse, unbeknownst to you, you were their mentor and trainer for the position. The outcome of how that disappointment took place was painful then, and hard to let go of. The loss of that job has created deep feelings of being tricked by way of a shady work relationship, with a calculated agenda.
That incident has embedded a pity party mentality within you, creating its review in conversation with everyone whose attention you can attract, via cell contacts, by e-blast, and on all your social media pages.
Perhaps, you are too focused on your side of the story. There are similar situations like this one that have damaged our trust and willingness to be a helping hand. If we spend too much time wondering why things happen or do not work out for the best, it can lead to bitterness and resentment. Before long, we will be blaming others, blaming ourselves, or even God.
There is power in letting go of the past and the frustrations of trying to figure everything out. We may never understand how things happen or why. Life is not fair under most circumstances, however, there are lessons to be learned in every circumstance.
Even though it did not work out this time around, stay steady and steadfast in believing that things will work together for you in the future. Troubled times do not last forever. Even in sad or troubled times, there is always hope in alignment with a plan that can bring a change for the better.
Shake off the memories of yesterday’s discouragements and disappointments and commit yourself not to look back anymore at the mistreatment or the times when you felt that you got the short end of the stick.
Words of upliftment are how our ancestors survived the horrific circumstances of slavery. They had to believe a better life was possible and soon to come for them. In all the years that it took to achieve some portion of freedom, without trusting God and believing in their strength and endurance, they could not have sustained life.
Like our elders who continue to show us the way, we must not look to the left or the right. Look straight ahead. Press forward. Whatever your chosen path may be, walk in the light toward the prize, which shall be yours. Happy Black History every day.
[Hazel Rosetta Smith is a journalist, playwright, and artistic director for Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries. Contact: misshazel@twc.com and online www.hazelrosettasmith.com]
