In everyone's life there are hard times, and when we work to make better, we have the potential to live better lives.
A lonely boy
At one point in my life, I lived with a lonely boy. The world in many ways was unkind to him leaving him to feel unwelcome and unworthy, and like many who are left to feel that way, that boy sought camaraderie via people, places, and activities that weakened his overall ability to live well. His angst created angst all around him and curttailed attention to more positive matters and events. It was a trying time, and a time of struggle. For me, I learned the lesson of what needs unmet can create so have worked to notice and serve the needs of people around me. Of course, I haven't been perfect with this, but I will tell you that life got better.
Prejudice
As a young women who didn't fit society's description of what it meant to be valuable, I grew up with low self esteem in many ways. This low self esteem and prejudice obstructed opportunities for me. Fortunately due the advocacy of so many, a lot of that prejudice towards women has been mitigated, and women today are living better. I also read a lot to dismantle the effects of that prejudice in my life, but life is better, and I will continue to work against prejudice of any kind in any way that I can.
Oppression and lies
In my life, I have worked in oppressive, dishonest environments. I have felt the weight of that oppression in countless negative ways. I worked to get rid of oppression and lies in ways that I could, and I found better places to live and work. My life has much less oppression and dishonesty now than in times past.
Not enough money
Fortunately, even though I was from modest means, I could rely on my family if I truly was in a pinch when it came to needing money for an important bill. I've also lived within my means, but I never had lots of money. Yet, I did what I could to make enough money to pay my bills and have some good times. I sought out the paths to make a good wage via study, hard work, extra jobs, and more. Financially, my life is more comfortable now than in times past--times when I was running around the house collecting all the coins to get a treat.
Violence and Threats
I have lived in places that were less safe and welcoming than where I live now. You can rework your life to find safer, better places to live if you do face violence and threats.
Joy and Pleasure
Often we begin by adopting the lifeways of the family we live with, but as we get older, we begin to figure out who we are and what really makes us happy. The more you engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure the better your life is.
Loveless
There was a time when I wasn't in love, but desperately wanted to be in love. My dad basically told me to get out there and get active in pursuits that I enjoy. That lead to love. So I guess the message here is that the more you build a full life for yourself, the more likely you are to meet the kind of people you'll want to partner with. There's a lot of serendipity involved in falling in love, but it won't happen if you don't begin to build your life in ways that matter to you.
Tragedy
I have watched people rise from tragic events. I don't think I've experienced the kind of life-challenging tragedy that others have faced, tragedies such as the loss of a child, a burned home, a deadly disease, or a devastating natural disaster, so I speak with caution and yes, some fear, about this topic. No one wishes these events for their own life or the lives of others. As a military mom, I do worry--especially a military mom during the time of the undisciplined, rash, and thoughtless Trump. The people who I have seen rise from tragedy give themselves time, seek good counsel, and engage in events that bring them joy. They also find meaning in the tragedy, and ways to build from there. Their strength and courage brings me great hope and inspiration.
There are countless ways to make your life better and the first step is to take the time to dream about the life you want and reflect on what's holding you back from that life. Then the next step is working to include in your life the elements that matter to you with regard to building a happy life. I wish you well.