Just as I got two-thirds of the way across an intersection, a green car raced straight at my car. I floored the accelerator pedal. Crash! The guy’s car smashed into the back of my car.

This guy had run a red light. Then, he compounded it. He gunned his engine and raced from the scene of the accident. A hit-and-run driver.

At the ER, that afternoon, I got examined and received medications. I said to the doctor, “I think I’m okay.”

“You will hurt more tomorrow,” the doctor said.

A classic idea is: When you endure suffering, there is a gift to be found.

Really?

What I got was pain and lost time.

I have insights for you.

1. You define the gift.

At first glance, I could not find anything good connected to the accident. But later, my husband asked me, “You’re the one who defines the gift. What could be a gift to you?”

I replied, “I think fast on my feet.”

That was an insight that rose in my thoughts.

Often, my depression symptoms have me hyper-critical about myself.

But my quick reaction, which saved my car from major damage was new evidence. Yes. “I think fast on my feet.”

That’s a good realization. A supportive one to help me through my days.

Is it possible that you can define a gift after you endure something painful?

2. Sometimes, the gift is for someone in your circle.

Have you ever gone through an experience that hurt—but later, you were able to be compassionate toward someone? Perhaps, you were the one person who could understand their pain.

So, the gift of the suffering might make you a deeper person. Someone more compassionate. You gain wisdom from an experience that you did not want. With such wisdom, you can serve others.

What suffering in your life can help you or others in the future?

3. Ask the Goddess for Her insight.

Here is a prayer you can use.

Goddess,
Let my painful experiences
Be the torch that lights the way
For me and others to grow this day.
So Mote It Be.

May these insights support your path.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater