My parents and I don't see eye to eye. It is my belief that we will never be aligned in our viewpoint.  During a recent interaction, I found myself engaged in a battle of wills. We all seemed to be more concerned with being right, rather than being effective.  I find myself irritated at their refusal to accept me as I am (even at this age in my adulthood). When I take the time to pay attention, however, I realize that I am engaged in the same challenge--refusing at some levels to accept them. In the midst of the heat of the discomfort, I am presented with an opportunity. I can either attempt to validate my view (and risk alienation and rejection) or I may simply release the need for approval. The difficulty of the situation has provided me with the opportunity to decide in my actions who it is that I wish to be in that moment. Do I want to be self-righteous, victimized or loving and compassionate? It is not a judgment about the choice; it is simply clarity around the choice that I am making. I am able to step back from the emotion and realize that this conflict is not a punishment, but a gift.

What are your current challenges? What difficulties are you experiencing in your life at this moment? How might this opportunity be a gift (perhaps cleverly disguised)? If you were able to look into your future, how might this experience serve you in creating greater success in your life?

Success or sabotage? Every experience, interaction, and challenge is either one or the other; the choice is always yours to make.

Is this going to be an incredible day?  Where are the opportunities to make it so?