They Come in Threes

I had no choice in the matter, as if I was hearing a diagnosis from a doctor. Ever receive a message or an email that would change things? I am not talking about little changes, I am talking BIG ones, causing vast shifts in perception, a change of focus and a big change of plans?

Have you ever had that happen to you?

It happened to me … they say these things come in groups of three and for me it was no different. The first one came in the form of a conversation over coffee. What kind of change did it bring?

Understanding. Peace.

Although the news blew me away, it also brought understanding. I was able to fit together pieces of a puzzle and see the full picture. What a treasure to be taken into someone’s confidence. What a beautiful discovery of understanding when honest thoughts are shared in an atmosphere of trust.

The second incident was a telephone conversation. You know, when you ask someone, “So, how are you?” Think before you ask, you may just find out. Again, I was floored by what the response was. What did it bring me?

Sadness. Honesty and Truth can bring change sometimes. Both virtues are good in themselves, but the change presented was uncomfortable. I had to accept that things would never be the same again and I had to say goodbye to the “good old times” and face a new reality. Change is not always pleasant and exciting. I learned that sometimes it is just plain terrifying.

Inevitably the third announcement came in the form of a Friday morning email. One look at this email and I could not contain myself. It was an invitation I just could not refuse. It promised adventure coupled  with a few risks and some discomfort. It would change the way the focus of the next three months of my life resulting in a potentially life changing experience. An opportunity I had been hoping for and talking about for months became a reality. All I had to do was say, “YES!” What did it bring me?

A change in perception.

Suddenly challenges became a training ground for the next step I was about to take. Things I had groaned and complained about before were suddenly opportunities for growth and a challenge rather than a burden. My little day to day worries that sometimes overwhelmed me seemed insignificant in the light of what was ahead. Was I afraid? Not at all, I could not be more excited. Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it. And I got it.

What ever announcements come your way, look for the underlying messages they bring. Will you learn understanding, accept change graciously, change a perception or learn another lesson in the process? I almost missed it, these were life’s jewels that hid behind the unexpected. Be the news good or bad, it’s how I reacted that was very revealing. I took the time to process and access the information and to see where it took me. You have the choice. The way you react will tell you much about yourself. It did for me. I learned a thing or two about myself. And I am okay with that.

What else comes in three’s? Discover other items that come in Three’s