Nesivos Shalom: What You Do With What You Went Through

The main thing is not what you went through, but what you do with what you went through.

Attribution printed on the image: Nesivos Shalom

A reflection on the teaching

We do not choose everything that happens to us. This saying directs attention to the choices that may still be available afterwards. It should not be used to minimize pain or demand immediate growth from someone who is hurting. Sometimes the next useful response is to rest, receive help or admit how difficult things have been. With time, we may also decide what we want to learn or protect. The question is specific: given what happened, what would help me live more responsibly and kindly now? The answer can begin with a very small step.

Source note: The attribution above is transcribed from the image. The exact source and English wording have not been independently verified.