DON'T WORRY IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS! Which is easy to say until you are in the 
midst of a really big one, I know. But the only people I am aware of who 
don't have troubles are gathered in little neighborhoods. Most communities
have at least one. We call them cemeteries. If you're breathing, you have 
difficulties. It's the way of life. And believe it or not, most of your 
problems may actually be good for you! Let me explain. 

Maybe you have seen the Great Barrier Reef, stretching some 1,800 miles from 
New Guinea to Australia. Tour guides regularly take visitors to view the reef. 

On one tour, the guide was asked an interesting question. "I notice that the 
lagoon side of the reef looks pale and lifeless, while the ocean side is 
vibrant and colorful," a traveler observed. "Why is this?" 

The guide gave an interesting answer: "The coral around the lagoon side is in 
still water, with no challenge for its survival. It dies early. The coral on 
the ocean side is constantly being tested by wind, waves, storms -- surges of 
power. It has to fight for survival every day of it's life. As it is challenged
and tested it changes and adapts. It grows healthy. It grows strong. And it 
reproduces." Then he added this telling note: "That's the way it is with 
every living organism." 

That is how it is with people! Challenged and tested, we come alive! Like coral 
pounded by the sea, we grow! Physical demands can cause us to grow stronger. 
Mental and emotional stress can produce tough-mindedness and resiliency. 
Spiritual testing can produce strength of character and faithfulness. So, you 
have problems -- no problem! Just tell yourself, "There I grow again!" 

Author Unknown