When Life Hands You a Magic Eight Ball: A Lesson in Resilience
This past weekend, one of my sons suggested we let a magic eight ball decide our family’s adventure. Knowing how big he dreams, I braced myself, this could have turned into a very costly or complicated plan. To my surprise, he asked if we should go for a hike. The eight ball answered: “Decidedly so.”
And just like that, our Saturday plan was set.
Preparing for the Adventure
My wife and I got busy with the practical things, packing snacks, filling water bottles, and grabbing bug spray. Meanwhile, our boys prepared in their own way, stuffing games, books, a Lego set, and even a stuffed animal into their backpack. It was the perfect snapshot of family life: practicality meets imagination.
Along the Trail
We set out together, laughing and exploring. The boys marveled at snake holes, colorful leaves, and even dead leaves on branches that looked like bats. After about an hour, their energy started to fade, and the requests to head back to the truck began.
We thought we were on the express trail back. Instead, two hours and nearly five miles later, we finally made it to the truck. There were tired legs, sore feet, and plenty of complaints—but not once did the boys give up.
Finding Strength in Small Moments
What stood out most was how resilient they were. My wife distracted them with games. We took turns slowing down to walk with whoever lagged behind. Despite frustration and fatigue, we found ourselves laughing at little things and making memories we didn’t even realize we were creating in the moment.
The truth is, life often feels like that hike. We think the path will be shorter, easier, or more predictable than it actually is. Then we discover it takes more out of us than expected. But if we keep moving forward, lean on each other, and find joy along the way, we come out stronger than before.
The Takeaway
No matter what you’re going through, or how far off track your expectations feel, having faith, a positive mindset, and resilience can make all the difference. Sometimes the hardest trails bring the best stories.
