Sometimes life puts us through a dark patch. It could be health issues, financial crisis or a relationship breakdown. And during this period we struggle and it seems there’s no light at the end of the Tunnel.

But like tunnels, though dark, these phases help us move from one side of life to another. And when we approach the mountain, we don’t need to learn how to scale it. We need the skill to drive effectively through the tunnel.

Just as in the tunnel we need to put on our lights, similarly during a rough patch we need the light of knowledge to show us the way ahead. Understanding that nothing lasts forever and every phase has its beginning and end, gives us the resilience. Knowledge gets us through.

We cannot stop in a tunnel. Similarly we must keep moving no matter how strong the headwinds. A boatman rowing against the tide makes little progress but develops strength in his arms. And when the tide changes, which it does, he’s ready to move ahead with a speed never experienced before. Tireless self effort gets us through.

And just like light emerges at the end of every tunnel, we too need to keep going with the faith that the light will appear. And it is the light of a new aspect of life. A collapsed business could lead to starting a new career. A broken relationship gives space for someone new to enter our life. Health issues could lead to a changed lifestyle for the better. Confinement could bring out hidden talents and interests. Faith gets us through.

And when we recognise our dark days to be nothing other than life preparing us for the next phase of a beautiful life ahead, we start seeing Grace in our challenges. And when we are ready to cross over to a better life ahead, in our heart we will know that life will send us the blessing of a Tunnel to see us through.