We have all encountered moments in our lives where we suddenly wonder, why am I here? Can I survive through this moment? Why do other people have what seems to always be just out of your grasp?

Everyday, I am learning to accept that life is a gradual process. Sometimes when positive changes in one’s life appear to progress slowly it may be difficult to embrace and feel good about them. After all, when you see others rapidly forward in job promotions, marriage proposals, and home acquisitions while, maybe you are still making the same income, in the same job, etc., sometimes it may be difficult for you to keep your spirits and positive nature in check.

Why them and not you? When will it ever be you?

As I begin to allow myself to recognize, understand, and appreciate the small triumphs that have come my way, I begin to see how they are slowly, yet consistently building and multiplying. And, in doing so, it makes me understand that I truly need to remain patient, diligent in my efforts and persevere through the tough moments; easier said than done, but without a doubt worth the effort.

How Do I Know?

Recently, I had a conversation with a self made billionaire. Yes, I said billionaire. I found out that he started his fortune with only $1,000 and over a 28 year span he managed to turn a mere one grand into an approximate 1 billion dollars fortune. The lesson from this simple summary of his success is that he did not make his fortune overnight. It was a process and though I don’t know all the details of his journey I am certain he had many challenges that he had to overcome along the way. But, the key to his success was that he remained loyal to his goals and vision. He had to believe in himself and have the confidence to carry out his dreams.

When I began my independent writing endeavors, I began publishing poetry and small articles on a social networking writing site where other writers could review your work, but you did not receive any compensation for your efforts. That was about 3 years ago. Before that time, I always knew that I had a deep love for writing (it is my deepest passion), but my belief in my talents needed support and nurturance. After staying with this site for awhile and I had received enough of the support I needed regarding my work, I realized I was finally ready to move on and risk faring my luck in the royalty publishing writing world.

It was at that time that I began writing and publishing work on Triond, Helium, and other various writing sites. I remember when I started and received some of my first reader comments and my first earnings. I was beyond happy, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven. It was amazing for me to think that someone had taken the time to read my work; that someone in the world thought my ideas and words were valuable enough for them to not only enjoy, but learn something from, etc. But, a funny thing often occurs with me; that is, when I finally reach my goals, I tend to forget the sublime emotion of success and my achievements are suddenly transformed into status quo again. And once again, I am sent back to feeling like I need to do more; my triumph is transformed to nothing in comparison to the Mercedes that my neighbor has just purchased.

It is a consistent cycle that I have been trying to break for many years. There are times when I am able to have a better handle on it than other days, but it’s been a loyal companion longer than I can remember. And, it’s a battle I need to break and eradicate.

However, even as I write this, I realize this cycle hasn’t always been a downfall. Upon reflection, I realize, it has also actually been a strong driving force that has pushed me forward toward achieving all my goals. It’s a vehicle that helps me not settle for average. But, I do realize that there are better ways to propel myself forward toward my dreams. Instead of comparing myself to others, I need to learn how to compare myself to myself.

And, this is the greatest lesson of all.

Best wishes and blessings to all.

For more great reading:

• B12 Shots: The Newest Energy Booster
• How to be a Triond Super Star
• Celery: Do Your Body Refreshingly Good
• Stumbling on Happiness
• If I Tell You I Love You (poem)
• Green for Life
• When the Night is Blue (poem)