Conquering adversity is simple and direct: Respect yourself. Eliminate self pity. Close ranks with your team. Continue to believe in the mission. Work with purpose.
When we work through these five steps, there is no adversity that can defeat us. We will always get up every time we get knocked down. We get our mettle from the tough times we survive. In the song “Breath In, Breath Out, Move On” by Jimmy Buffet, he sings, “If a hurricane doesn’t leave you dead, it will make you strong. Don’t try to describe it, just nod your head. Breathe in, breathe out, move on.”
Weather every storm we face. It makes us better. Adversity is the precursor to success if we will it to be. Nothing is ever as good or as bad as it seems. Understanding that makes nothing we face insurmountable. Fight the good fight in every challenge and our goals will eventually be realized.
I memorized this poem when I was sixteen. Everytime I face adversity, I recite it to myself as a reminder to never give up. This poem is my personal reminder that I can bounce back for any adversity that life throws at me. Enjoy!
FROM THE CAMP OF THE BEATEN
I have learned something well worthwhile
That victory cannot bring –
To wipe the blood from my mouth and smile
Where none can see the sting;
I can walk head up, while my heart is down
From the beating that brought its goad,
And that means more than the champions crown
Who is taking the easier road.
I have learned something worth far more
Than victory brings to men;
Battered and beaten, bruised and sore,
I can still come back again;
Crowded back in the hard tough race,
I’ve found that I have the heart
To look raw failure in the face
And train for another start.
Winners who wear the victor’s wreath,
Looking for softer ways,
Watch for my blade as it leaves the sheath,
Sharpened on rougher days.
Trained upon pain and punishment,
I groped my way through the night,
But the flag still flies from my battle tent
And I’ve only begun to fight!
-Grantland Rice
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