Contrasts

Our desires may be generated by contrasts. We have an experience and decide, consciously or unconsciously, which elements of the situation are not consistent with our path. We may be seeking a long-term romantic partner and, through dating, identify the traits and behaviors of a potential partner that are counter to what we seek. When I am working with career counseling clients, I have them list what they didn't like about prior jobs. Then we revisit what they would prefer in their current job search using this information. When we observe injustice, we can take action to address it. If all we did was to have experiences that were in perfect synchronicity with what we desired, we would not have any motivation to stretch who we are. The Chinese symbol for crisis represents opportunity for new choices. Sometimes the most difficult situations can bring about our greatest positive growth when we choose to see it as opportunity. What are some of the contrasts you are experiencing that can signal growth for you?