Often in life we are faced with setbacks and at times things just don't go the way we had hoped they would. Things happen that stop us in our tracks and change our direction. Many times these changes are not what we had thought of and maybe even never considered that we might face. When these events affect you, how do you react? Are you prone to freeze up and get frustrated or do these times actually increase your determination? For Nonna, there was only one way to cope with setbacks, and that was to be even more determined to move on. She faced what many would consider as being past the breaking point many times in her life. Being forced to be separated from first her brother, then witnessing her father being destroyed for no reason. The separation from her Grandmother and the loss of her mother at the hands of evil minded people. The loss of her homeland and traveling thousands of miles to start over, on her own. To adapt to a new culture and language, to find a way to fall in love and carry on. None of the above things that happened to Nonna was how she thought her life would play out, but she always kept her faith and was determined to find happiness in some way. I guess it can become habitual to keep going, no matter how tough things are.
I am sure that my mother felt abandoned at times in her life. She had many chances to question her God on what he was doing with her, but she remained steadfast in her belief that bad times would soon pass and that she just had to remain strong, to stay determined and see it through.
Nonna would tell you that at times she felt angry about what happened to her, but she did not dwell on it. She would tell you to pick up the pieces and move forward, that this was the only way to survive, and she knew all about surviving. So when you face a setback, think of Nonna and smile for her grittiness and determination and draw strength from her.
Love John
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