Seasons

In the vast chronicles of human history and its sacred texts, the narratives that often resonate most are those of ordinary individuals enduring extraordinary circumstances. Such is the tale of Ruth from the Old Testament, juxtaposed with Abraham Lincoln's rise in the 19th century. Their stories remind us that life's essence often lies not in the victories, but the struggles that precede them.

Ruth's narrative unfolds in a subdued backdrop, devoid of the grandeur of kings or high priests. Her story is one of resilience and choices forged in adversity. Widowed by the death of her husband, Ruth faces a crossroads — to restart her life or to stand by her grieving mother-in-law, Naomi. The decision isn’t driven by a promise of prosperity but purely by empathy and loyalty to Naomi. At a time when their nation grappled with desolation, Ruth chose compassion over convenience, a decision that would chart the course of her destiny.

This theme of unyielding determination isn't unique to ancient texts. In the 19th century, a lanky lawyer from Illinois named Abraham Lincoln navigated a sea of personal and political defeats. From losing multiple elections to grappling with deep personal losses, Lincoln's journey to the White House was riddled with setbacks. Yet, it was his unshakable commitment to his principles and vision for a united nation that propelled him forward. Lincoln, like Ruth, exemplifies that the road to greatness often winds through valleys of despair. In today's age, where the paradigms of success are often painted with broad strokes of perfection, it's vital to remember that life’s texture is modded by both triumphs and tribulations. We live in an era of instant gratifications, where the quest for an 'ideal life' sometimes overshadows the invaluable lessons embedded in our struggles.

Indeed, I too once dreamt of a life mapped to perfection. A decade ago, I outlined a vision for my future — a PhD, a loving family, a burgeoning consultancy. And while life's meandering path hasn't aligned perfectly with that blueprint, it has been a journey rich in lessons, laughter, and growth. So, as we stand at the crossroads of our individual journeys, let's channel the spirit of Ruth and Lincoln. Whether you're basking in the summer of success or navigating a harsh winter of challenges, remember that every season has its purpose. Life's true testament isn't in avoiding trials but in how we face them. Let us hold steadfast to our goals, embrace the unpredictability of life, and trust in the divine orchestration of our individual stories. As the saying goes, "There's no testimony without a test." Here's to facing our tests with grit, grace, and gratitude.