A universal relationship exists between progress and growth which is inextricably linked to destruction.
The most accessible analogy exists in physical fitness. Muscle growth is physiologically impossible without a rather violent tearing of the individual fibers. Those fibers, if fueled properly, will reform over time. The result is added strength.
Perhaps a bit more abstract are examples of expanding infrastructure and beautification. The gardener knows she must till the earth, breaking up the long-held formations of soil in order to cultivate healthy plant growth. So, too, must the city planning commission close portions of roadway, destroy bridges, or raze buildings in order to widen traffic lanes. All this in the spirit of growth.
Our relationships are not free from the burden of this truth. How many times have you been hurt by someone closest to you? When was the last time you inflicted harm; knowingly or by accident? In the best of times, those relationships survive and by all accounts are stronger despite — if not because of — the strife.
Even when relationships fail or die as a result of pain, are we not stronger as individuals in the aftermath? Do we not emerge with greater knowledge of how to protect ourselves and with more tools to do so?
