The value of storms

Osho: “Growth means that you are absorbing something new every day, and that absorption is possible only if you are open; now your windows and doors are open. Sometimes the rain comes in and the wind comes in, the sun comes - and life moves within you. So you will feel a few disturbances: your newspaper will start moving in the wind, the papers on the table will be disturbed, and if the rain starts coming in, your clothes may become wet.

If you have always lived in a closed room, you will ask: “What is happening?”. Something beautiful is happening. It is good to be available to the wind, to the rain, to the sun, because this is what life is. So rather than becoming worried about it, dance. Dance when the storm comes, because silence will follow. Dance when challenges come and disturb your life, because in responding to those challenges you will be growing to new heights. Remember, even suffering is a grace. If one can take it rightly, it becomes a stepping-stone.

People who have never suffered and have lived a convenient and comfortable life are almost dead. Their lives will not be like a sharp sword. It will not even cut vegetables. Intelligence becomes sharp when you face challenges. Pray every day to God: “Send me more challenges tomorrow, send more storms” and then you will know life to the optimum.”