Prepare Yourself For Better Things

Often when we struggle in relationships or personal trials we recognize that we are being prepared for something better. It is that optimism that carries us through to the next challenge. However, it seems like we keep going through the same thing over and over, again and again. Eventually, if we are not careful, we may lose hope of ever having a happily ever after.
It is very important that we recognize that happily ever afters only come when we take an active role in preparing ourselves for our own crowning event.
The parable of the 10 virgins tells the story of 5 virgins that collected oil and waited for the day of the bride groom's coming, while 5 other virgins neglected preparing until the announcement that the bride groom was on his way. The second 5 ended up asking the first 5 for some of their oil, but prudently the first 5 declined. While the second 5 may have considered themselves prepared, because they had their vessels ready, they forgot that a vessel not filled is still not prepared.
When a prince is born he is not a king, but a prince. As the prince grows he is taught all the things that he will need to know in order to become the king some day. However, the prince remains a prince until the moment he is anointed a king. It is his responsibility to prepare himself to be worthy of his calling.
Recognizing the difference between being prepared and preparing ourselves is huge. Many are being prepared, but few prepare themselves to become what they are prepared to be.
Even Cinderella's godmother could not have prepared her to become the princess just by giving her the glass slippers and the dress. Cinderella had already become a princess among her friends... She just was waiting for her bride groom to show up.