Wisdom from Martha Graham:. “Fire is the test of gold; adversity, of strong men.” And that adversity can be as intense as waiting in line at McDonalds to suffering an illness or tragedy. The refiner keeps putting the gold back into the fire until all the dross is burned off and the gold is pure. We, also, are often put back into the fires of adversity until our self importance, self reliance, and selfish pride are burned away. Is there an easier way? Probably. And we probably had opportunities to lessen some of those character flaws. But to really be refined as pure gold, as pure vessels , the fires of adversity work best to make us even stronger. “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change…” is more than a prayer. It is a an act of our will and grace bestowed. I accept, He grants. A powerful combo. And it is there for the asking. May your adversity today–whatever the intensity–bring you serenity, knowing that He wants only the best for you!