Ask Liz
New perspectives for Inspiration and Motivation
by Liz Sterling
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Q.Do you have any tips for surviving times of persistent bad luck? L.G., Miami Lakes
A. Bad luck is a good opportunity to see differently. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect.” What you consider bad luck may very well be a blessing in disguise.
This story illustrates life and luck.
A Chinese farmer, who was considered a sage, had a prized horse. One day the horse vaulted the gate and disappeared. The neighbors were lamenting his misfortune. He nonchalantly said, “Good luck, bad luck, that’s life!”
A few days later his horse returned with several more horses. The neighbors congratulated him on his good fortune. He nonchalantly said, “Good luck, bad luck, it’s all the same.”
Having now several horses, his children began to ride. One day, his eldest son fell off the horse and broke his leg. His neighbors once again consoled him on his misfortune. He shrugged his shoulder, and said, “It’s not good, it’s not bad. It’s life.”
A few weeks passed and the northern tribes of China started invading. There was an announcement for forced enlistment among all able-bodied males. His son, now on crutches, was exempt from the draft.
All his neighbors said he was so lucky his son could stay home.
The English historian Edward Gibbon reminds us that, “The winds and waves are always on the side of the ablest navigators.
Live in the moment, with an attitude of acceptance and you too will see... how luck really works.
Liz Sterling earned her Master's degree in Counseling and Human Development from Hunter College in NYC. Many know and love Liz from her tenure as the host of the InnerViews radio show, where she interviewed over 2,500 authors, celebrities, scientists, musicians and artists. Liz also served as the spiritual advice columnist for the Sun-Sentinel for more than 2 years.
Liz is feature editor for The Happy Herald and Balance Magazine. She is the co-host of BU Radio on 101.5 LITE FM Miami; pod cast available on her web site: www.AskLiz.com
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