Sometimes people come into your life, and you know right away that they were meant to be there. They serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson, or help you figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who these people may be, but you know at that very moment they will affect your life in some profound way.

Sometimes things happen to you that at the time may seem horrible, painful and unfair, but in reflection you realize that without overcoming these obstacles you would have never realized your true strength, willpower or heart.

Everything happens for a reason – nothing happens by chance or by means of good luck or bad luck.

Whether it is illness, injury, love lost, moments of defeat, or sheer stupidity, all these things occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere; safe and comfortable, but dull and utterly pointless.

The people you meet, who affect your life, and the successes and downfalls you experience create who you are – even the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are probably the most poignant and important ones. If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart, forgive them, for they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to whom you open your heart. If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally; not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love. They are opening your heart and eyes to things you would never have seen or felt without them.

Make every day count and learn from each moment you spend with another, for you may never be able to experience it again. Live your life with purpose, and live it to its fullest potential. And at the end of every day, be sure to ask yourself….“Have I Made a Difference Today?!”

Written by:
Kylie Wilson
Member Collaboration Manager – Western U.S.
governmentresource.com