
I have taught many classes and have asked those questions. Some people have answered that life is a merry-go-round, you go around and around but end up in the same place. Other people have said that life is an escalator. Sometimes you go up and sometimes you go down, but you are always moving. Others have said life is a game of chance . There are winners and losers. It is all the luck of the draw.
Why do you need a metaphor for life? Your metaphor will determine how you respond to the circumstances of your life. For instance, if you belief life is a game of chance, you are simply a victim. If your life is a merry-go-round, you might be having fun but no matter what you do, nothing will change. You get the idea, your metaphor determines your response.

These metaphors are how I am able to live with my ALS. You might be wondering how my metaphors help me. Also you might be wondering how they are going to help you.
As you know, ALS is horrible! I have lost all control and I am very dependent on other people. Other people do the most basic things for me. How can anyone who is as independent as I was, survive?
The answer: my metaphors! Since I know that life is a test. I realize that ALS tests my perseverance. I know that life is a trial; therefore, everyone has to go through something. I am not unique, so I am not alone. You might not have ALS but you might have some other trial that is challenging you.
Most importantly, I know that life is temporary. I know that I can endure anything because eventually it will end. For example, imagine you are at a concert with fifth graders who are tone deaf. Yet they are belting out Christmas Carols at the top of their voices. Excruciating! You can make it through because you know that there is an end.

Now you see how my metaphors help me in all my circumstances. I believe that if you employ my philosophy in your life, you will have the same winning attitude.
The question for you: what is your metaphor?
Please leave me a comment because I want to know if I have made you think about your life a little differently. I was inspired to write this blog because someone out there needs to hear it. I don't know who it is but I am being obedient to the voice in my mind.