The Sheep in Wolf's Clothing
by Linda Larsen, CSP
© Copyright 2000

OK. It's true. There are times in life when "stuff" happens. Things go wrong. People don't cooperate. And even though it feels as if someone is conspiring against us, we know on a deeper level that it's just part of life's curious cycles. Sometimes we're riding on the top of the wave - and sometimes we're in the pounding surf. But if you're like me, when you're being beaten up by outside forces, about the last thing you want to do is give thanks. I mean - give thanks? For what? For the pain?

Well no. And yes. No - not for any senseless suffering. And yes - because is there really such a thing as senseless suffering? I think you might agree that each and every tragedy you have ever endured or loss you have survived brought you (afterwards) a greater sense of your self. Perhaps it gave you a deeper appreciation of something, or a fuller understanding of compassion, or forgiveness or love.

So my question is this. If one day we're going to look back at the situation and say, "Here's what I learned from having gone through that" - then why don't we just take that perspective while we're going through it? Why spend all that time bemoaning our outcast fate, railing against the gods and feeling sorry for ourselves? Why not look the misery right in the face and proclaim with great enthusiasm and passion: "Thank you! Thank you so very, very much! This is great! What a fabulous gift!!! Wow! Am I going to be a better person because of this!!!" As Oprah has said, "When you can give thanks in the midst of your trial, know that you are becoming your finest."

I give tremendous thanks for the gifts that have previously appeared in my life as sheep in wolves' clothing:

For growing up in an abusive home - because I learned how to care deeply for the plight of other such children.
For all those panic attacks - because I learned how to be compassionate with others who have had the same experience.
And yes, for getting kidnapped by that escaped convict - because I really came to understand how precious life is.
And even for getting dumped overboard at 46 years old by my not-so sweetheart lawyer guy of fifteen years - because not only did I learn how to truly take 100% responsibility for myself - but I am learning how to do it with joy, passion, fun and contribution to others!

So here's your action for this week. Right now, look around you. Are there any sheep disguised as wolves? Look hard. I'll bet you'll find them. When you find one, I'm going to suggest that you rip off that skimpy, tawdry, flimsy wolf costume the little guy is wearing, give him a big hug and invite him to tea. Figure out why he's there, thank him profusely and lovingly send him on his way.

Specifically, write down 3 circumstances, past or present, that first appeared as a tragedy in your life. Along side each one - write down what you learned from it that you are thankful for. Focus on all the gifts you have uncovered in your life as a result of these situations. Truly give thanks, silently - or even right out loud.

I'll conclude with the words of Marianne Williamson: "Very often I say, 'Thank you, God' when a gift in my life is packed in silk and satin and wrapped beautifully in ribbons and bows. But just as often, I say thank you when the gift has been wrapped in heartache. Thank you, because I'm determined to see the lesson. Thank you, because I know there's a gift here, even if I cannot see it."

Gee. This gives new meaning to the idea of "counting sheep to get to sleep", doesn't it?

Word count: 648

Tag line: Linda Larsen, CSP, helps individuals think strategically, communicate effectively, and celebrate success. She is an international keynote speaker, trial consultant and author of the book, True Power, and the best selling audio program, 12 Secrets to High Self-Esteem. She can be reached at www.lindalarsen.com or 941-927-4700.

 

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