Life is not a bed of roses and we will all face challenges at some point. It is during times of adversity that we truly discover who we are. We get to learn if our faith is as strong as we thought it to be, and we discover if we really are difference makers, capable of accomplishing extraordinary things. When the going gets tough, do we give up or do we step up our efforts and take the fight to a different level?

I am reminded of a quote by former UCLA men’s basketball coach, John Wooden:

“Adversity is the state in which man mostly easily becomes acquainted with himself, being especially free of admirers then.”

Adversity not only reveals who we really are, but also reveals who is really in our corner. I have faced significant personal and professional challenges. These challenges forced me to reach down, muster all the energy and determination I could find in order to be victorious. I am thankful for having experienced these challenges as I have been strengthened and am now ready to move forward.

When the going gets tough….stand up, fight and persevere!

Onwards and upwards!