Chapter 1: The Internal Struggle

No matter how adeptly one navigates life's challenges, there always seems to be an internal struggle that can disrupt everything. For me, these struggles manifest in various forms.

I've faced the loss of family members, the closure of businesses, and even managed to finish a rugby match despite dislocating three fingers. After a severe double leg and ankle fracture, I was back to training within seven months, which I consider quite impressive. Yet, a mere twinge in my chest or a slight headache can send me spiraling into retreat. It defies logic.

The external events were undeniably traumatic, yet they were comprehensible. The downfall of two family businesses? That pain, while significant, was understandable. Multiple broken bones and dislocations? Those injuries felt like badges of honor, something I could draw strength from. When you break a leg, the cause is clear—you witness the impact firsthand. It's a tangible pain, fierce and, in a sense, exhilarating. But the internal struggles? What on earth is happening within?

Chapter 2: Insights from the James Webb Telescope

Recently, I watched a captivating documentary on Netflix about the James Webb Telescope. It highlighted the incredible efforts of scientists from NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency in launching this groundbreaking telescope. One striking fact from the documentary resonated with me: the James Webb Telescope had 344 single-point failures. This meant that if any component malfunctioned, the entire mission could be jeopardized.

This realization was profound. Just one failure could lead to total collapse.

Now, I'm not claiming to be a telescope myself, but I wonder if there are lessons to be gleaned from these scientists' experiences.

For instance, nearly half of those potential points of failure were attributed to the sun shield. The scientists conducted three tests, but on the third attempt, they decided to halt further testing due to the risk of damaging the material. They understood that excessive scrutiny could lead to more harm than good, so they placed their trust in the process and in their own expertise. After years of hard work, they chose faith over fear—and it paid off.

So, what can we, the "little telescopes" of life, learn from these experts and their monumental challenges? Staying cooped up at home and constantly questioning our negative emotions can often be counterproductive. It's far more beneficial to take a deep breath, seize the moment, and embark on our own journeys.