Serendipity
-noun
1. an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident.
2. good fortune; luck
In the summer of 2008 I woke up to a day filled with preparing for a triathlon. I was so happy that morning. Then, as life can change in an instant, there was a revelation. I knew the discovery was going to quickly lead to the end of my marriage. It was a heartbreaking, vomit-inducing experience. It would take me 6 months of Lexapro, 10 months of therapy, and 12 months of crying to really feel whole again.
This description of the life-altering discovery that led to my divorce, at first glance, does not appear to be a serendipitous event. A happy surprise, good fortune, or a lucky circumstance is what comes to mind when using the adjective serendipitous. In that moment it was not serendipity, but rather zemblanity.
But to me, living a happy life means embracing and finding purpose from some of the greatest life challenges. From these difficulties have come many wonderful experiences. All of my experiences–good and bad–affected the person I am today.
The challenges of separation have actually been blessings. I love how I have been shaped by the experience. I have met inspirational people who are a few steps ahead of me on this journey; people I would have never met otherwise. And there have been wonderful opportunities that only came about because I started a blog. A blog that only exists because of the journey I began with the end of my marriage.
Regardless of how the defining moment in my marriage is described, only one thing is important: 27 months later I am happy.
It was a serendipitous event.
Note: This piece was inspired by a writing prompt at Studio30 Plus this week, which was SERENDIPITY.
Good movie too!
I love your take on this prompt. So honest and hopeful, almost a sense of gratitude for what could have really defeated you. Excellent post, as always!
Thank you! These writing prompts are wonderful writing exercises. I like where they lead me.
And yes, I am grateful for that day and that it brought about such a big change in my life and in me.
I have been a recent reader of your blog and I find it very inspriational as I am going thru my divorce..and I had a similar moment Oct 2010 as well..wanting to be happy. its been over 3 mos..moved out and living separate lives..I am working on being a better dad than I ever was when in the house..and your last entire paragraph rings true. I have met some amazing people, formed friendships that I will have for life and will continue to move forward in my journey. Happy.. Thank you …Eric
Eric,
So many wonderful surprises can come from the difficult challenges in life. I am so happy you are able to focus on being happier in your life and are able to embrace the changes that are a result of your separation.
I wish you much luck in your journey too.
Thanks for visiting.
Great take on the prompt and a great way to look at life. I can so totally relate. I have also gone through a divorce caused by a vomit inducing event so I know it’s not easy to see the rainbow behind the clouds.
Visiting from Studio 30
Maasiyat,
I love your analogy of seeing a rainbow behind the clouds! Last year I could barely see that rainbow, but I was starting to see it. Much more has been revealed this year. The clouds are starting to dissipate for me.
Thanks for visiting!
You’re where I was 4 or 5 years ago right after my divorce. You’re in that self discovery period where every day is an adventure. I love reading yours posts because it reminds me of that time. I hope I;m reading you years from now when you find that person or thing that makes your life even more amazing the way my wife and girls have made mine.
good post
Lance,
I admire you as a writer so your positive feedback means a lot to me. Thank you.
It feels like I am a kid again; I am giddy with excitement to see what is around the next bend in the road as I make my way on this journey.
I KNOW I am going to be a fan of this blog. Similar life circumstances, 18 months out – obstacles have become opportunities.
I am so excited you are reading Lorraine! Thanks for visiting and I am happy to hear you are seeing the changes in your life as opportunities. It sounds like you have moved into a good place in the process. Good for you!
Ahhhh….so you’ve been on a trip.
It’s how you handle the unexpected that makes it the hidden blessing….and it appears you know what you’re doing.
I’m not all that adept….but there’s hope for everyone.
Susan,
“It’s how you handle the unexpected that makes it the hidden blessing.”
I love that and you are correct with that statement. I imagine you are more adept than you are giving yourself credit for.
I look forward to reading all one hundred of your posts – I just came across your blog today via the Red Dress Blog Hop.
Thank you!
Thank you so much Joelyn. I would be honored if you came back to read more.
Quite simply..
..Good For You!
Thank you Simon!