Tough Times, Hardships

I often tell people, that stressful times are great opportunities.

However, it is easy to see it from this perspective only in hindsight, because there is extreme pain when we are going through the stressful experiences. It is the pain of a metamorphosis. Every time it occurs, we either transform, or we don’t. Until we don’t transform, the hardships shall keep occurring. That is why we were born in this university of earth. To learn and to transform

There is the side of each of us, which we are not at peace with. That which we are very uncomfortable with. It is one of our deepest regrets as well as fears. 

Whenever our back is against the wall, it is a great time to reflect on that side of ourselves. Try to understand and accept that side of us. It is a time to dissolve the boundaries which separate that side of us with what we consider the actual 'me'.

It is very important to understand that both of these sides are 'me'. We are a composite. One cannot exist without the other. So we cannot deny this side. 

Such times of deep distress are great opportunities to diffuse these boundaries.

It is easier said than done. I also understand that sometimes being aware of that side can be difficult and acknowledging that side is even more difficult. 

However, it has to be done. If not now, then it will have to be done next time. In that sense, struggles and pain are a gift . Hardships are a gift. These are our windows of the essential metamorphosis.

Let me also tell you that once we are able to diffuse these boundaries, it will be exhilarating. Then we will not be required to go through helpless times because we would have learnt this particular lesson. Doesn’t mean stress won’t be there in future, but it will be of a different kind. For the next lesson.

In that sense, hardships are often viewed spiritually as a crucial element in personal growth and transformation. Across various spiritual traditions, hardships are seen as opportunities for deeper understanding, inner strength, and connection to a higher purpose. Here are some key perspectives on the spiritual significance of hardships:

1. Path to Self-Discovery:

   • Hardships force us to confront our limitations, fears, and attachments. In facing these challenges, we learn more about who we truly are, beyond the superficial layers of identity. This process of self-discovery can lead to greater self-awareness and a more authentic way of living.

2. Strengthening Inner Resilience:

   • Difficulties are often seen as a test of endurance and resilience. By persevering through tough times, individuals develop a stronger inner core, which helps them face future challenges with greater courage and composure. This resilience is a vital aspect of spiritual maturity.

3. Detachment and Letting Go:

   • Hardships can help us realize the transient nature of life and material possessions. They encourage us to detach from worldly desires and find peace in accepting the impermanence of all things. This detachment is a key teaching in many spiritual paths, such as Buddhism and Hinduism.

4. Purification and Transformation:

   • In many traditions, hardships are viewed as a form of purification. Just as gold is refined in fire, the soul is believed to be purified through suffering. This purification process helps eliminate egoic tendencies, negative karma, and other impurities, leading to spiritual transformation.

5. Learning and Wisdom:

   • Hardships often bring valuable lessons that contribute to our spiritual growth. Through suffering, we gain wisdom, compassion, and empathy for others. These qualities are essential for spiritual development and for leading a life of service to others.

6. Connection to the Divine:

   • Many spiritual teachings suggest that hardships bring us closer to the Divine or a higher power. In times of distress, people often turn inward, seeking solace and guidance from a spiritual source. This connection can deepen one’s faith and trust in the Divine plan.

7. Humility and Surrender:

   • Hardships can humble us, reminding us that we are not in control of everything. This humility opens the door to surrender—letting go of the need to control and trusting in the flow of life. Surrender is a central theme in spiritual practices like Bhakti yoga and Sufism.

8. Cultivating Compassion:

   • Experiencing hardship often enhances our ability to empathize with others who are suffering. This empathy fosters compassion, which is a cornerstone of spiritual life. Compassionate actions and thoughts help in creating a more harmonious and loving world.

9. Awakening and Enlightenment:

   • In some spiritual traditions, hardships are seen as catalysts for spiritual awakening. They can shatter illusions and prompt a deep questioning of life’s purpose, ultimately leading to a state of enlightenment or liberation.