Is this the end or the beginning of a new adventure?

We all go through stressful times, whether we are younger or older.  Not many are exempt from this, at some stage.  Whether it be exams and the expectation to achieve and succeed and even the pressure to make sure that your future is secured.  It could be a dance competition, or a ballet exam.  It could be a job interview or a very important meeting.  These are all times when the palms sweat, hearts beat fast and we feel overwhelmed.  It is about having perspective for the situation and choosing to face it with grace, good humour and fortitude.  A flower loves sunshine, but it also needs a little rain to help it grow.  Our character may be tested in tough times, but it may be exactly what is needed to get you to the next level, or to a place closer to where you really should be.  Almost all of us would love to wake up each day with a sunny disposition and a carefree existence, but the world seldom works that way.  You could be trying for a particular result for a long time and just when it looks possible or even probable, the perspective changes and the dream is dashed.  But use the rain falling to make yourself open to grow - throw away the umbrella and soak up the soaking.  When life sets a mountain in your path, put on your climbing boots.  It is tough not to be down and have a sour attitude when the world keeps throwing lemons your way.  It is exactly at these times that we need to remember our long term goals and if you have written them down, this would be a good time to take a fresh look at that which you want to attain down the line.  Though difficult, it is best to avoid the "why me" syndrome and look for proactive steps to get your self out a predicament.  Sometimes the only way to make it through a tough time is to knuckle down and work through it.  Just make sure that it is a worthy cause and that you are sure of where you are going and if your remain truly determined then surely nothing can stand in your way.