Sometimes we struggle to cope with life. Events and situations come our way with a speed and complexity that leaves us feeling inadequate. Running away is not an option. Burying our head in the ground like an ostrich and living in denial is not an option. Learning to cope is the only option.

Three qualities that help us cope are hope, belief and discipline.

No matter what the situation, we must never lose hope. The miraculous evacuation of the Allied forces at Dunkirk would not have been possible had hope been lost. Hope is like a the small flame that keeps alive even in a storm. And a flicker of hope can ignite us to bring forth the best we have and cope with whatever we are faced with. Hope ignites us.

Belief in ourselves is critical. Many times it is not our limitations but our self-doubt that holds us back. But our belief must go beyond our past knowledge. We are ourselves unaware of our true capacity. Our self belief will come from sitting in deep silence, connecting with the power within, seeking guidance and moving ahead with an unknown but real confidence that we have it in us to cope. Belief charges us.

And disciplined self-application is key. A boatman in a storm can have hope, find the inner confidence but all of that is of no use if he puts down his oars. We cannot stop moving. It doesn’t matter that we move slow and sometimes feel we are not making progress. The important thing is we keep moving. Discipline propels us.

I am reminded of what our Principal at Campion would often say – “Devotion to duty will determine your destiny.” No matter how talented, skilful and resourceful we are, our devotion to our goals and responsibilities will see us through.

But life was not meant to be lived just coping. We were born to be happy because Love and Joy is our true nature. And when we look life in the eye and greet every situation with respect and confidence, giving the best we have, life calls on us to serve. To walk alongside others who are finding it hard to Cope.