My dear daughter,
There will be times in your life when nothing seems to be going as planned; when everything you want seems out of reach when you feel you can’t take it anymore, and you feel you can’t go on because the situation seems hopeless.
As humans, we paint ourselves a picture of what we presume our life should be based on societal norms and peer pressure, when, instead, we are meant to savour and appreciate our present. Rather than counting our blessings, we are preoccupied with what we are yet to attain.
My dear, no one can foretell the future. Yesterday is gone, we are here now, tomorrow is out of sight, and so, this very moment is all we have. Based on this reasoning, have an open and appreciative mind.
The biggest difference between peace and stress is your attitude. It’s all about how you look at a situation and what you decide to do with it. Always bear in mind what I said earlier: there are no certainties in life; we don’t know exactly what the future will bring. Your best strategy for living is to make the best and most positive use of the present moment, no matter how where you find yourself.
When something doesn’t go exactly as planned, learn from the experience, rather than freak out and be overwhelmed by stress. It will do you good to take this advice given by St. Paul:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
“In everything give thanks.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Love you always,
Dad