What does Obstacles Mean to Me?

Jan 2020

When I am putting pen to paper, thinking I will rack my brain to pick up some moments in my life, I am startled by the memories flooding back, both bitter and fond. I feel fortunate that I have left some footprints on the snowfield of my life, although some are deeper and some are shallower. Their existence is reminiscent of so many unforgettable moments I have experienced. There are not the only time of happiness and excitement, but also the puzzles of difficulties and obstacles. Looking back, I tend to discover the positive parts of these obstacles, which have left the deeper tracks and see their parts in my growing up. These barriers remind me of a quote from Frank Clark, “If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere.” In the painful process of the chrysalis, I have the feeling of frustration and fear, however, when I finally try one more time and see the beam of sunshine, I am filled with a sense of courage and confidence.

In retrospect, every obstacle I had is like a canyon stopping me from running toward my destination. There are moments of hesitation that stop me from dashing forward, thinking life is not fair. There are equally trying moments when I am determined to make a bigger jump across the canyon of difficulties. After the painful self-doubt, I gain more confidence in the process of overcoming obstacles, and feel glad I am just on my journey to discover a better self in pursuit of my dream? To me, having no obstacles will be like sailing in a small boat in the sea, where there are no waves and winds. It might seem great. Some people always say, “What a great day for sailing, without winds and waves, it is safe and we won’t wet!” But the truth is, without the winds and waves that potentially could put you in danger, for they are actually the force to push you toward your destination. Imagine sailing without winds, it seems safe but will send you nowhere and you get stuck in the same place where you start.