I am reading a brand new book called The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday.
- The Obstacle Is The Way is a great read. Holiday uses many historical examples to remind us that we are capable of overcoming challenges.
- The central theme of The Obstacle Is The Way deals with Stoicism.
- This way of dealing with the world has its foundation in Ancient Greece.
- References are made chiefly to Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor from two thousands years ago.
- Modern examples of Stoics include John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant and Steve Jobs.
- Stoics are patient and tough and tolerate serious problems without getting negative.
- Most immigrants are Stoics.
- They work hard for a better life for their children.
- They do this work in virtual silence.
The Obstacle Is The Way is very instructive for anyone interested in Immigration.
As I look at my law school diploma, issued 20 years ago, I also look back on about 20,000 consultations with people about Immigration issues.
- Many times, the law requires a LONG wait to achieve the end goal of a green card.
- The Obstacle Is The Way for certain when family members are separated for many years. One person is in the United States and the other has to wait overseas. We see this issue often with the backlogs in the Immigration system.
- The same wait is necessary during a lengthy deportation battle.
- Adjournments are common. Immigrants stuck waiting sometimes for years for the Court to schedule their trial date.
- Appeals can extend the process even more.
BUT, very often, there is Victory at the Conclusion.
The tone of Holiday’s book involves Success through changing our perceptions, taking action and having a strong will. People who find themselves entangled in Immigration Cases can handle their struggles.
Immigrants – almost always – maintain their power by thinking objectively, being active and exercising willpower.
