Progress rarely occurs in a straight line

It seems counterintuitive, doesn't it? That to go forward, we sometimes go backward, or sideways? Thinking about my own growth and increase, I realized that often what preceded an increase, was a season or two of decrease. Or, when I expected to continue in a straight line toward my goal, I took a few steps to the right or left instead. What's more, we often don't recognize it at the moment - what seems to be a decrease or a detour was the exact thing needed to catapult us forward.

I've also had moments (several times) when something great happened at the exact same time as something tragic. What do you do in such moments? How do you stay grounded in both experiences? I've learned to make room for both experiences at the same time. You don't have to deny yourself moments of joy, just because you are in pain or grief. And vice versa, you can allow moments of grief, during times of celebration. We are strong enough and capable of handling complex, contradictory experiences at the same time.

Rarely does progression happen in a straight line. You will get to where you want to be if you keep going - through the pain, disappointments, apparent detours, and all.