Between now and October 13, our employees, volunteers and clients will share some of their thoughts and reflections on Regina Brett’s life lessons. Today, client advocate, Peter Alberson, shares his thoughts on Life Lesson #26: Frame every so called disaster with these words: In five years, will this matter?

Peter Alberson, client advocate

“The statement, ‘In five years, will this matter?’ is one that my wife and I have adopted to help us assess the importance of some of the calamities we have experienced. I know that at the time of the disaster, it is hard to gain this perspective. But when viewed from the perspective of the long-term effects, many of these disasters are seen as temporary set-backs. Whether being down-sized at work or experiencing a calamity of a more personal nature, this perspective has helped us see that some of those possible anxiety producing situations really won’t have a long-term effect and can be weathered by trusting in the One who holds our lives in His hands. When looking back on some of those disasters, we realize that we became stronger in our faith, closer to each other, and found what great support we really have from friends and other loved ones. Were those experiences pleasant? Not in the least! But they have served to help us have more compassion and empathy for others who are going through trying times. ‘In five years, will this matter,’ is a good measuring device for discerning what actually is important and helps us not sweat the small stuff. There is One who will give ‘beauty for ashes and the oil of joy in place of mourning.’”

~ Peter Alberson, Client Advocate