RECO’s Favorite Quotes: Overcoming Adversity

This week’s favorite quote comes from RECO graduate and Behavioral Health Technician Chris Garrett.

Chris and I have bonded over our mutual love of the movie A Christmas Story, though I have never seen an episode of Dallas, the show from which Chris’ quote was born. In my Googling, I discovered that its orator, Jock Ewing, was quite the character, both literally and figuratively.

He was known for having said, “Vegetables are a must on a diet. I suggest carrot cake, zucchini bread, and pumpkin pie,” and although that is a great quote, it is not the one that Chris submitted.

Instead, he submitted this one:

“Any man can win when things go his way,” said Ewing. “It’s the man who overcomes adversity that is a true champion.”

This resonated with me. Adversity is a familiar visitor to many. It is adversity that creates resilience within us; it is adversity that cultivates growth.

Although the concept of things “going our way” can be music to a tired ear, it is a not a realistic measure of our day-to-day experiences. We will encounter challenges, no matter which path we decide to take. We will face obstacles, no matter where our feet have walked.

It is an ongoing acceptance; it is adversity working its magic in our lives.

The work of recovery is not easy. There are certain days where it may feel impossible. No two weeks or days or even moments are alike; it is in understanding this that we allow ourselves to grow in forgiveness and gratitude.

It is in granting patience to the most delicate parts of our perception that we are able to tackle difficulty with confidence.

Adversity will not leave. It will create room for itself. It will grow.

Your power lies in remembering your capacity to evolve along with the challenges that present themselves to you.

Your power lies is championing your recovery to its fullest.

Your power lies in embracing adversity, and the beautiful transformations it can inspire.