Welcome.  This is what can best be described as an Inspiration Exchange.  If you are looking for it, you will find it here.  If you have a story to tell, please share it.

Everyone encounters setbacks in life.  No two lives are identical.  The challenges we face vary in magnitude, timing, and duration.  Some are lucky enough to have access to resources not available to others.  But the outcome of each situation depends on some key elements.

Resilience.  The ability to bounce back from a crisis—or even end up better than before the setback occurred.

Attitude.  A positive attitude is essential.  The belief that things will get better is closely related to Faith.  The willingness to do what it takes to improve your situation is where Attitude comes in.  It’s also refusing to attend The Pity Party and making your life the best it can be.

Determination.  Also known as tenacity, will, fortitude, persistence, or even stubbornness.  It’s the little voice inside that says, “Don’t give up” whenever things get especially tough. 

If you’re facing a difficult situation and came here, you probably possess all of these qualities, whether you believe it or not.  The act of reaching out for a lifeline of hope and inspiration shows a level of resilience, attitude, faith, determination, and courage.

When you get through this, please share you story with us.  Explain how these qualities, as well as those unique to yourself, helped you.  Give credit to anyone who helped you.  Let us in on the gradual improvements and little triumphs on the road to recovery.  It probably didn’t happen overnight. 

Anyone with a story of resilience is encouraged to post it here, whether it’s your own or that of a friend or family member.  It may be recovery from a health, emotional, or financial crisis.  If your faith or religion aided you, include that in your testimony, whatever your beliefs might be.  No particular religion, race, nationality, or class has a monopoly on resilience.  Don’t let yourself believe that a limited education means you don’t have something to offer.  We are here to learn from each other, and there is no substitute for lessons learned the hard way.

I’ll get the ball rolling with my own story.  Click “My Story” at top.