Yep, it’s a cliché.
Hard times do make us stronger.
Last week, I shared how walking 500 miles across Spain (twice!) changed me for the better, made me braver, and taught me the value of community. It’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever attempted, but it was rich with rewards.
Without walking those thousand miles, I wouldn’t have learned how to be brave or about the value of community so I could engage in healing democracy today. I’d just be chewing my nails, overwhelmed by the headlines, and doing nothing.
It’s a cliché for a reason.
There is value in what we overcome. You, me, and nearly every person has had experiences in life that challenge them and discover new-found strengths. Whether it’s in facing an illness or raising a child, accomplishing a personal or professional goal, persevering through challenges makes us wiser.
For many people engaged in social justice and democratic change, those experiences inform how we persevere right now, today.
This week’s assignment:
While the AoC Checklist team is on its scheduled break this week, I’m inviting you and all of our subscribers to take 10-15 minutes to reflect on these three questions:
- What is something challenging you’ve done or experienced?
- What did it teach you?
- How does it serve you now as you engage in the work of social and political change?
Reflecting on the deeper meaning behind past challenges can provide you with renewed energy and a clearer perspective on what really matters. So, that’s your assignment this week!
Bonus: You’re also invited to share.
Sharing your story is a pebble into the pond, extending inspiration to others. If you’d like to share your insights from the questions above, consider these options:
- Share your thoughts with someone you trust in your own circle, and offer curiosity about their experiences.
- If you’d like to be published in our weekly inspiring message (shared with 75,000 subscribers), complete this form.
No matter how you spend the week ahead, I am grateful that you’re showing up at this time in history. Your voice matters.
Warmly,
Jen Hofmann
Thank you Jen, for nurturing so many, and keeping us focused. I just now got a chance to read your challenge, and just yesterday realized I need to speak a church on Social Justice issues. I’m thinking your challenge is just what I need to encourage others to be active in social justice issues that are important to them. Thank you for a great starting point.