Let's Play a Game

Actually, lets just imagine we're playing a game. Ready?

Ok, you're in a room among dozens of people from all different walks of life, ethnic backgrounds, etc.

Now, imagine you have all of your problems--things you are currently dealing with that could be anything from an inconvenience to a life altering condition-- crammed into your pockets.

Now, on the count of three, toss all of your problems into the air and let them all fall to the ground with all the other problems in the room.

1. . .

2. . . . .

3!

Now, get on your hands and knees and sort through all of the other problems to find your problems once again.

Do you think you would want to trade with anyone else? Do you think anyone would want to trade with you?

The thing is, everyone has problems. Too often we make the mistake of assuming that because someone lives well or receives considerable favor or privilege, that they are by association, free from the problems of ordinary people. 

Calvin Coolidge wrote, "Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a Proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race."

If it were not for our problems, we would never know what we are ultimately capable of. Thus, our problems are something to be grateful for. While they may be burdens in the moment, knowing what you are capable of overcoming is a far greater reward than living problem free.