Grow Through What You Go Through

Posted: 17 Feb 2025 by MYG

Being open to learning - whatever life throws in your way

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For those who know me well, those I've just met, and those I’ve yet to meet, I always show up with an open heart and a friendly smile. Truth be told, it’s the people I meet along the way who bring me joy—not just for the adventures we share, but for the unique potential and stories each of you holds. I am forever curious, genuinely interested, and I love purposefully seeking out the good in every person I encounter. Life and people are truly extraordinary.

But beneath the smiles, kindness, and warmth, there are many layers I’ve kept hidden—layers I’ve allowed myself to tuck away for one simple reason: wanting more for others than I do for myself. The pain, helplessness, and sadness I've carried—the fear of not being good enough to help those I care about as they face their own struggles. The moments of doubt, when I’ve shared too much or not enough. The unsettling feeling when my ego steps in, wishing others would believe in me and what I do, instead of trusting myself. The heartbreak of not being able to do enough or be there enough. And sometimes, the overwhelming sadness I feel when I witness the pain in the world, which dims my light and makes me question my place in it all.

Yes, these are the parts of me you might not know. 

I’ve experienced trauma in many forms—from something as seemingly small as not coming first in a gymnastics competition I worked so hard for, to the deep grief of multiple miscarriages, the loss of my youngest brother, and the sudden passing of my beautiful sister-in-law. Each loss, each challenge, each hardship has taught me valuable lessons in strength, courage, and perseverance. I’ve learned that, even in the darkest of days, I can trust that things will be OK. "I’ve got this!" is a mantra I repeat often, and it has served me well.

Through each experience, I’ve grown through what I’ve been through. I’ve moved through challenges and, in doing so, questioned my own beliefs. Each moment, no matter how painful, has reminded me of this profound human experience I’m on—a rollercoaster of emotions that tests our strength but ultimately reveals it.

 

 

A new friend recently shared a story that resonates deeply with me. She said that, no matter what pain or illness she’s experiencing, she makes it a point to find even the tiniest window of light. She keeps looking until she finds it, then she acknowledges it with a lighter heart, knowing there’s always something to discover if we seek it.

I’ve practiced this myself, and it’s something I see reflected in my family and friends who face their own challenges with grace and strength. I hope this gift of finding light in the darkness will resonate with you too.

Looking back over the years, I realise how many lessons, people, and experiences I’ve been gifted. And what I want you to know about me is that I am continuing to grow through what I go through. More than ever, I understand that love is the greatest superpower, and with each lesson, it grows stronger.

When there’s been loss, grief lingers—it doesn’t vanish, but over time, it becomes a little more familiar. The absence of someone, something, or a part of my life becomes something I can learn to live with. It’s not about forgetting what’s lost, but about finding new ways to honor and carry the memories.

The loss of my children as they grow into incredible adults is a bittersweet reminder that what I miss from their childhood is replaced with a new joy in watching them become who they are meant to be. The sense of adventure my brother once embodied is now mirrored in my children as they explore the world, surf, ski, and dance through life. I see pieces of my brother in them, and in myself, as I continue to seek adventure alongside my family and friends.

The gift of my sister-in-law’s life, and her ability to live fully despite her challenges, left me with one of the most valuable gifts: her mantra, “Grow through what you go through.” It’s a mantra I hold close as I reflect on her legacy and the wisdom, strength, and courage I see in everyone around me. It’s a message I carry forward every day.

I am so grateful for the people in my life who continue to teach me. My adult children, Liliana, Jack, and Sebastian, have taught me more about love, patience, courage, and perseverance than I could ever express. My husband, who loves me unconditionally and dares me to take bold steps and be brave. My parents, whose strength and lessons continue to guide me. My sister, Carley, whose heart is full of kindness, and my brother, Richard, whose compassion, determination, and love inspire me daily.

To my husband's family, for always welcoming me with warmth and love, and to my incredible friends, who inspire and support me every single day.

And to each and every one of you—whether you’ve been a client, a colleague, or simply someone I’ve crossed paths with—I’m grateful for the lessons, the laughter, and the light you’ve shared with me.

And to the newest addition to our family, a beautiful soul who decided to grace us with her presence 20 years after our last child—what an incredible gift she is. With her arrival, a new energy has entered our home, and she’s already showing us all the power of continuing to grow through what we go through. She’s teaching my adult children a beautiful reminder of their own upbringing while offering them fresh awareness of what it means to be a parent.

Our children were there to witness her arrival at home, and this new chapter for all of us is bringing us closer together as a family. It’s a time to nurture her with all the love and wisdom we’ve gathered along the way, and to begin a new adventure—one full of love, growth, and joy.

So now, through all the challenges life has thrown my way, I know I can still find joy, love, and meaning in the experiences. I can choose to feel differently, to recognise and celebrate what I’ve done, and to keep showing up with an open heart and a smile.

I choose to grow through what I go through—and I invite you to do the same. Whatever challenges you’re facing, know that you are not alone, and the strength you need to move through them is already within you. Let’s keep growing together.

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