Feb. 21, 2025

Finding Strength in Frustration

.:: By John B Grimes

"Frustration is the weight room for resilience—every struggle makes you stronger."

Frustration is part of every journey. It’s uncomfortable, exhausting, and sometimes feels like it will never end. But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s this: frustration isn’t the enemy—it’s a sign you’re pushing yourself to grow.

After meningitis forced me to start over, frustration and I became well-acquainted. I remember one particular day in therapy when I was determined to stand up on my own. No amount of willpower could keep me steady. My legs wobbled like they didn’t belong to me, and every time I fell back into the chair, my frustration grew. But the truth is, frustration wasn’t a dead end—it was a signal I was trying, reaching, pushing. That day, I didn’t stand unassisted, but when my head hit the pillow that night, exhausted, I knew I was one step closer to reclaiming my strength.

Frustration isn’t a sign to stop—it’s a reminder you’re doing the hard work. It’s proof that you care enough to keep trying. Lean into it, and let it fuel your progress.

John B Grimes

Host

One of the lucky ones, John miraculously survived meningococcal disease (bacterial meningitis) as a sophomore in college. John’s body endured considerable trauma that was mostly healed with physical therapy. But, neurological dysfunction and blindness are permanent reminders of his battle with meningitis.

To spread awareness John is an active advocate with meningitis organizations and shares his unique survival story and journey on his podcast, Destiny Is Debatable with a mission empower people to be successful regardless of their circumstances.

John motivates with a message full of impact that is universally understood. "The filter through which you view your circumstances is most certainly up to you. Whether you wake up in your own bed tomorrow, in a luxury suite at the Ritz-Carlton, or in a hospital, don’t wait to start building your life into the one you want. Waiting is like being at the DMV: your future seems to be in the hands of the apathetic (doctors with poor prognoses, bosses who don’t value you, and your own nagging self-doubt). Don’t wait. Just do the next right thing. Even if you end up taking two steps forward and one step back, that’s still progress. In Texas, we even call it dancing."

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