Problems are Temporary

We all face difficulties and challenges in life. Some of these are serious in nature, but I am sure you would agree that most of them are not life-threatening. Today I will be sharing with you a real-life story of difficulties and challenges that inspires a person to the core. It is the story of the expedition to the Antarctic led by Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton. It is a story of one of the most astonishing feats of exploration and human courage ever recorded.
This expedition was so dangerous that it can only be understood by the advertisement given by Sir Ernest Shackleton himself. It said: “Men Wanted: For hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success.”
So, in 1914 Sir Ernest Shackleton and a crew of 27 men set sail for the South Atlantic to cross the Antarctic overland. However, their expedition failed and Shackleton with his group of 27 men were literally stranded on ice. Apparently, they had no hope of survival. They remained on the floating ice for six months and spent the next four months on Elephant Island before they were rescued.
The expedition failed to accomplish its intended objective, but it became recognized instead as an epic feat of endurance.
Now the question is: How did the miraculous escape of the members of the expedition come about? The answer lies in their confidence that their situation was only temporary.
This miraculous formula is applicable not only to Shackleton and his crew but to every single man and woman. We often face serious difficulties, such as at home or at work. The simple formula for facing these challenges successfully is to remember that one’s problem is temporary and not permanent. It is a law of nature that no difficulty goes on and on forever.
The only thing that can create a serious problem for you is to lose your patience. So, remain patient. And wait for God’s help. It is on its way!
(Rajat Malhotra is a member of the New Delhi-based Centre for Peace and Spirituality. He can be contacted on [email protected])