“It’s Always Darkest Before The Dawn.” – Florence and the Machine
This quote comes from a song called “Shake It Out” off the highly successful Florence and the Machine album, Ceremonials from 2011. This is an old quote said by many, but I’m using this particular great song as a reference for this blog entry. It’s a simple quote and yet so very effective. A metaphor for the tough times we may have to go through in life. A reminder that despite how dark it may be, there’s always light to come.
It can be undoubtedly tough to keep hope alive when all you seem to be experiencing reflects the exact opposite of hope. It’s like being in that long dark tunnel people talk about. You know there’s a light at the end of it, but that knowledge doesn’t make it any easier when you’re trapped inside and can’t see it from a distance. I’ve been at my highest highs and lowest lows and I’ve learned only one thing is certain: all moments are temporary. Life is a series of ups and downs, a journey of sorts. You can never truly know what to expect, and that can be both scary and liberating at the same time.
Some people spend their entire lives waiting for a special moment of bliss. A moment they have always dreamed of and feel will make their life everything they want it to be. The truth is that although dreams can definitely come true and feel wonderful, you can’t expect your dreams to suddenly wrap your life neatly in a bow and stop all dark moments. Dark moments are a part of life and help us to grow and understand things we otherwise wouldn’t understand. Some moments may last longer than others, but nothing is ever guaranteed a certain time frame. It would be great if we could make certain things last for as long as we live, but life just doesn’t work that way. This is why it’s important to appreciate both the good and bad times as they occur. They are there to teach you about yourself and about others and if you follow the path of your heart, these moments will eventually lead you to where you need to be.
The dawn represents a new day and endless opportunities. It’s a day full of unknowns and chances to live your life the way you want to and become the person you want to be, no matter what has happened in the past. Although it’s natural to want to avoid dark moments, when they happen, I encourage you to embrace them. Take a deep breath and absorb the knowledge you are gaining. Use that knowledge to move forward to the light and the next obstacle you are sure to encounter.
In our darkest moments, we realize how strong we are and have the ability to look fear and doubt in the face with a fierce determination to overcome anything. There’s just something about the sunrise. It’s as if you can go through the worst night of your life, but when the sun rises, something inside of you sparks the thought that maybe, just maybe, everything will be alright. As long as you refuse to give up and keep moving forward, it will be. When you turn every regret into a learning experience and act with courage and dignity, I assure you that the light will be there to guide you on your next necessary path in life. Glow & shine bright! xo
Check out “Shake It Out” by Florence and the Machine in the official music video here: