Destiny
“There are two types of people on earth: one type works hard to shape their destiny, while the other waits for destiny to take care of it.” – A hairdresser.
I’ve been a loyal customer of the same hair salon for years, and the owner has always been charming and full of energy. Over time, I began to notice the spark in her life and learned the fascinating story behind her destiny.
Seize Opportunities
She is the oldest of four children in a working-class family from a rural village in China. At first, she couldn’t clearly see where her future was heading. Then one day, a woman came to the village seeking a bride for her son, and she saw this as her opportunity. Chosen for the role, she immigrated to America.
In the U.S., she cared for her aging parents-in-law while raising two children. During this time, she learned English and pursued a career in hairstyling. Never one to complain, she immersed herself in every aspect of the hairdressing business.
Hard Work Pays Off
Her dedication paid off. She saved enough money to open her own salon, where she affectionately called all her clients “a beauty.” We all felt better walking out of her salon, and I could see that she had truly fulfilled her version of the American Dream.
Appreciate What You Have
What is destiny? When we were young, we were taught that “a man’s willpower can change his destiny.” We learned that by working harder, we would reap greater rewards in life, especially in the future. That statement still holds true.
As we get older, the scope of our destiny broadens. Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, there’s still a 50% chance that we might not reach our goals. Even when we do achieve them, we often feel a sense of emptiness in our souls. I’ve come to realize that our future might be influenced or determined by a higher power, or even by God.
Life Is Not Always Fair
Life isn’t fair for many. Some never get the chance to start their journey, while others face challenges far beyond what anyone should have to endure. It’s not just about reaching goals; it’s also about appreciating what we have and supporting those who are less fortunate.
Trust in a Higher Power
The hairdresser’s statement rings true. She seized the opportunity to change her destiny, but ultimately, God has a plan for everyone. We should stand firm, trust in His guidance, and live our lives according to His will. The best way to express this is through the famous Serenity Prayer:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”