Happy is the one who endures testing, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love Him. Jacob (James) 1:12, TLV

I remember the first time I rode a roller-coaster. It was a right-of-passage moment. My younger brother and my aunt (who was only 18 mos. older than me), were already frequent riders and I was half-shamed, half-challenged to do it.

So, as we stood in the long line for the roller-coaster, I lived a thousand deaths. I feared every possible scenario. When the bar clanked across my lap, I tested it to be sure it was strong and considering even then retreating.

Then the journey began with the steep ascent into oblivion followed by the dive that made my stomach crash and push out a scream of terror.

Somewhere along the way the screaming included laughter. And when the ride was over, I was a better person for having done it.

We can choose to live in fear as we face tests, but even if we begin that way, once we are “strapped in” we can ride it out and with the screams, maybe some joy, and be a better person for it.

Hold on. Those who endure end up enjoying.