Challenges or Opportunities

“No one goes through life untested,” Bubba continued. “We will all face challenges in our lives. But we have a choice. We can allow these challenges to destroy us or they can make us stronger—and it is our perspective that decides the outcome. We can choose to see adversity as just a challenge or as an opportunity that helps us learn, improve, and grow.” Bubba then started digging and scooped up Jade's book and read a study to prove his point. “Yep, it says here that researchers studied 500 humans in Britain who seemed to have it all—wealth, success, happiness. The researchers were surprised to learn that these very successful people all had bad things happen to them like everyone else. However, one key characteristic they all possessed was that they turned bad events into good outcomes. While they were in the midst of their challenges they looked for the opportunity and they turned misfortune into fortune.

“How do I do this?” Matt asked knowing he wanted to turn his misfortune into fortune.

“It's as simple as asking yourself a few questions,” responded Bubba. “You ask: What can I learn from this experience? How can I grow from it? What do I do now?

“In fact, this is what I had to do when I ended up in here. One moment I was sleeping with a family I loved, and the next moment I was here. At first, I only saw the challenges before me. I wasn't interested in opportunities. Then Jade came to the shelter and started reading her book to us and I realized I needed to change my attitude. Instead of being all sad that I'm alone in a shelter, I figured I could use my time at the shelter to improve the lives of the dogs here.”

“And that's why you're helping me,” Matt said cheerfully.

“Yep,” said Bubba. “My challenge became an opportunity to help others. I honestly don't know if someone will adopt an old, big dog like me. Of course it's possible and I have faith that if it's meant to be, it will happen, but until that day I know my opportunity is right here at this shelter and I'm making the most of it.”