Is there anything to gain from loss?

Loss doesn’t always mean the loss of a person. It could be the loss of a job. The loss of health. Loss of reputation. It is everything from distressing to devastating. But there are good things that can come out of it.

Believe me, I never would choose loss for myself, but when it comes to me, I ask myself, “What good thing have I learned?” The first thing is that I learn to live more in the present moment. I don’t try to wish away time to some great future. I try to savor the good of the Now. The second thing is that I realize the fragileness of life. I spend less time stressing over things that won’t matter in a year or two. I tell my friends and family that I love them more often and I tell them why I appreciate them.

Lastly, I believe I am more compassionate when I have walked in shoes similar to others. I try to listen deeply to what people are saying instead of thinking what to say next.

And I try to think before I speak.

So there is something to gain. Maybe you, too, can add to the list of gain coming out of your loss.