by Joshua Horn

Created on: July 19, 2007   Last Updated: January 19, 2009

Whether it's the collapse of a marriage, an addiction that you can't free yourself of, or any other disaster that has threatened happiness in your life, we all experience valleys in our lives that appear so low we have no doubt that we will never climb out again. But what we really need in order to take hold of a second chance in life is a light at the top of that next hill. We need to strive for something greater and more meaningful than ourselves to really find the kind of life we are looking for. It needs to be something that brings us two things: a new desire and greater motivation.

When searching for that something that pulls your life out of a hole, you need to look for something you desire. Find that hobby, skill, activity or event that drives your heart and your interests. Whether it's spending time with your children or making your own website, you need to find something that is uniquely you and spurs your interest. Without a desire to move forward in your life, you can never truly recover from something that has held you back from a new life. For some people who may not know what that great desire is, the best route is often to try lots of new things. Get involved with your community. Try new adventurous activities. Meet new people and engage in social activities.

The next thing to consider when hunting for that something that will make life new is something that motivates you. While you can be surrounded by things that interest you and entertain you, without motivation you may never take full advantage of those things. Find a friend or relative who would be willing to push you and stand beside you as you begin your ascent up that hill. Tell them your fears, desires and struggles. Let them be an active part of your recovery. Keep them involved in all parts of your life while you cope and begin your life anew.

For me it was my faith that brought me to a new place and gave me a second chance in life. My desire was to see lives changed and hearts renewed out of a love for Jesus Christ. My motivation was the friends who surrounded me as I began to develop my faith. Through accountability, regular church attendance and small groups I was able to learn about the many facets of faith and how to apply them directly to my life.

Find a desire that sparks your life and the motivation to make it happen and you will find a second chance at life. You will rebound and begin the ascent out of the valley, always looking forward and upwards to that goal that keeps your heart racing.

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