The Beautiful Struggle

” … your greatest prayers are not usually answered in comfort.” – Tyler Perry

When I came across this in one of his post on face book, something about that statement clicked with me. I thought back to the times, more recently than not when I have prayed and asked God about certain things, in which he answered by placing me in uncomfortable situations. Not trying to get too personal but, I prayed to God, asking him if he would show me how to love myself. The answer to the prayer was not me waking up one morning, and suddenly discovering a new found love for myself but it was forcing to be in conflicts with others and myself that pushed me to finally take a stand for something. Taking a stand for something, was something that started my journey of self identity and what some people would say “identity crisis”. I don’t see it as a crisis personally, but rather a journey with pit stops, and detours that only lead to the destination you were meant to be. Yes, the journey is a struggle but it’s a beautiful one. I mean what would I learn about myself, and how would I learn to love and accept every flaw and and every strength if I wasn’t put to the test…against myself. In this journey, I’ve learned some flaws that I have as well as some strengths. I’m learning that we should progress toward the point of mastering our flaws and being comfortable to showcase our strengths confidently.  Back to the quote, don’t pray and expect to get a quick and easy answer but be ready and willing enough to go through the trials and tribulations to get to where you need to be. Familiarity and growth don’t live in the same house. If you want to grow, you can’t be afraid of leaving the familiar. I use to wonder, how would I know if God is going to answer such a prayer and I realize that he is. I see my growth through the things I say, do and believe. Pray with an understanding and the eagerness to learn. Yes it may feel uncomfortable, but the most beautiful things come out of a struggle.