One of the Chilean miners to reach the surface last night in the incredible, unprecedented rescue mission unfolding at the San Jose Mine had written a letter to his wife in the days following the discovery of the thirty-three men, alive, 700 meters below the mountain-scape of Copiapo, Chili. In the letter, he said the hope of returning to her, his dear wife, would keep him going throughout the ordeal. He closed the letter with three words: Patience and Faith.
In the midst of what is certainly the most harrowing experience of this miner's life, his profession of optimism and trust traveled around the world to touch my heart. I'm reminded today that this simple credence has boundless power, and can be applied to any situation or challenge I'm faced with.
Everything of true value in life must be achieved. A treasured possession lacks luster if it came to you by chance, when compared to the rewards of hard work and determination. And in this day of "I want..." and "right now," it's easy to succumb to the pressures of frustration and the false promises of life's short cuts.
My publishing journey is well underway, but I've struggled at times with its course. The days are tough when my muse shuts down and my inner editor shakes her head in disappointment; although, it seems a bad day is followed by a truly inspired one, when the words pour out with the effortlessness of the Niagara River over the Falls. Deep down, I know I have to trust the process. The journey of achievement is more rewarding than its destination.
Today, my heart is with the Chilean miners and their families. Their ordeal of isolation and fear is nearly over, as the healing process begins. As with all our life's journeys, they will get through it with patience and faith.
Happy writing, all....
