When everything around us seems to be broken, it is not difficult to find things to fix. When nothing seems to be going right, even the most basic positive effort can make a noticeable difference in our lives.

We need to be mindful that history has continually demonstrated that times of great difficulty and challenge are also times of great opportunity. When we are surrounded with problems on all fronts and from every direction, there is also much value waiting to be discovered.

In live, when all is going well, it is easy to get lulled into a sense of complacency. It is easy to forget how capable and resourceful we can be.

To be sure, difficult times are not much fun. However, they can give us valuable insights into what is truly important.

Certainly there is much to be gained when times are good. There is, however, even more to be gained when times are challenging.

We must resolve to persevere and grow stronger through whatever difficulties may be presented. Trust that for though the difficulties will eventually end, the treasures they compel us to create will last a lifetime continuing to bring much reward and satisfaction.

John Quincy Adams said, “Courage and perseverance have a magic talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air.” We each have the courage to persevere. Sometimes success is a matter of hanging on when all others have let go.