Life is what happens when you are making other plans.

All three of my kids are competitive Irish dancers and it takes up much of the oxygen in our lives.  As I’ve said before, I don’t pay for dance but for the life lessons it teaches including perseverance, dedication, getting up when you fall, and winning and losing with grace.  In a month, my two boys are registered to compete at the North American Irish Dance Championships in New Orleans.  Planes and hotels booked.  Practices and workshops on the calendar.

And then yesterday my 14-year-old son was playing basketball at recess with a few friends when he rolled his ankle.  Broke the fifth metatarsal bone in his foot.

Could it be worse?  Of course.  Was it still devastating four weeks before one of the biggest competitions he competes in?  Absolutely.

Chances of dancing are slim, but we’re doing all the things you are supposed to… wearing a boot, eating healthy, protein-rich foods, taking some vitamins.

However, it was my 11-year-old son that gave me the best advice.  He said, “Mom, stress doesn’t heal your body.  Everything happens for a reason.  Stay positive and anything can happen.”  Out of the mouths of babes.

As former First Lady Michelle Obama said, “You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage. Instead, it’s important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.”  And Walt Disney once said, “All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me… You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”

Here’s to finding the bright side, learning the lessons, having hope and living life as it happens.