why it hurts to get better

"Why it hurts to get better" (cartoon by nakedpastor David Hayward) One of the things that we find very difficult to accept is that it often hurts to get better. Like this guy in the cartoon: the doctor promised to make his patient feel better. But in order to get there he has to endure some painful procedures. Surgery! It is the same with spiritual growth. It is the same with the deconstruction of our beliefs. Many people shrink back at the first hint of pain. They return to their former illness because it is easier. It feels better in the immediate. However, if we are willing to go through some painful procedures, the promise will be fulfilled: we will eventually feel better. We will experience healing. I know, for myself, that I have gone through some very painful times. But looking back I can see that they have all been worth it. I'm better off now than I've ever been! I'm healthier. More painful surgeries are in my future. And even though they are necessary, at the same time they are elective. I choose to have these procedures done! I will be better for them. newsletter    art     community     books