Undefeatable Attitude

During the “Christmas in July” celebration of the Today Show in N.Y. on July 26, 2005, Katelyn Wilbanks, from Catoosa, OK was awarded a full scholarship from OU, the University of Oklahoma. This award will allow her to graduate and fulfill her dream of studying to become a physician and help other children.

This teenager has a dream that no one can take away from her. Katelyn was born with Spina-bifida, a deformity of the spine causing her mayor health problems and physical impairments; her prognosis was totally negative. But the love of her family members and her own will to survive, proved the medical community wrong, empowered her and gave her the tenacity to overcome each and every obstacle in her life. She’s endured 54 surgeries so far and lost her left leg, yet, her attitude remains positive and her smile is contagious. David L. Boren, president of the university, handed the award which covers four years of room, board, tuition, books, etc. Katelyn is currently a sophomore at her hometown’s high school,and meanwhile, the university also arranged to have Katelyn tutored from now on, so she’ll be ready to enter the University when time is due.

One can only admire and marvel at such a young life and her accomplishments so far. It is a powerful testimony to many who succumb under the tiniest amount of pressure and adversity. So much endured, yet so positive and determined to beat the odds and be of help to others!

Are you facing struggles and hardships? Are you down and ready to give up? Or are you counting your blessings amidst your trials and looking for ways to beat the odds, and better yet, make a difference in someone’s life?

Success in life is not determined by the lack of struggles and setbacks. It is determined by our will to overcome and by our positive attitude. No wonder Solomon, the wise man, said: “Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is slow death to be gloomy all the time” (Proverbs 17:22-Good News). This has proved to be true in Katelyn’s life.

Next time you feel tempted to feel sorry for yourself, remember… success is determined by our attitude, not our circumstances. Why not cheer up and dare to make a difference in someone’s life? It will certainly make a difference in your life as well.
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-07-26

This Beautiful Day

Beautiful days are not only sunny days with blue skies, a gentle breeze and birds singing. Rainy days have their beauty too.

Imagine you are a flower. Would you complain about the weather? Would you be grateful only for sunny days? Would you be thankful for rainy days only? Some days are just cloudy, some are rainy, some days we get scattered showers, and some are plain dry and bright. Others, the heat is just unbearable and others, the storms just keep us inside seeking shelter.

Just as flowers need all kinds of days to grow beautiful, we need a variety of weather factors to grow into the beautiful flower God intends us to be.

We usually have no problem with sunny days, when all seems to go right and life is a breeze. But, what about those other days? Let the clouds of doubts draw us to search for God’s answers. The light of the world, the Sun of righteousness keeps His light ever shining, far, beyond the clouds. Let rainy days help us draw lessons of faith and trust in our heavenly father, that we may become stronger as our roots go deeper into the word of God. Let stormy days direct us to seek shelter in his arms.

Problems, trials and sorrows are part of life. Jesus said to his followers: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me, you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”–John 16:33. Through his victory we have victory, for “we can do all things through Christ which strengthens us”-Phil. 4:13

Rain or sunshine God bestows his loving care upon each flower. The beauty of today lies in your ability to understand that he will take care of you regardless of the weather.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-06-22

A treasure, where?

Ever been on a treasure hunt? How far would you travel to find it? What would you do if you found you have a treasure? Would you be willing to go to extreme measures to safeguard it? I’m sure when it comes to a treasure you’d rather be safe than sorry, right?

Not many people realize the treasure they own, therefore not safeguarding it. Many realize it just too late in their life to do much about it.

Are you on a treasure hunt? Search no more. You and I have been given a treasure by our Creator. The treasure chest is our body; the treasure, our health. It is our duty to safeguard it, following the instructions of our Creator, that we may live happy and prosperous lives.

Why are many treating their treasure so carelessly? We know there are certain things we should avoid such as meats, fat, too many carbohydrates, etc. We also know of certain things we should do such as drinking more water, exercising regularly, eating more fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking, drinking, and the list goes on. What are we waiting for?

Need some encouragement? Just visit any hospital. I guarantee it’s not a pretty sight unless you’re visiting the maternity ward. The rest is just mind boggling. Are we just taking our health for granted? Once we loose this precious, incomparable treasure, our life will never be the same.

Need extra encouragement? Look at the huge hospital bills just for spending a few hours in the emergency room? Wouldn’t you rather spend your money differently?

Our Creator is more than willing to help us stick to a plan that will ensure our health and happiness. He longs to see us in good health, both physically and spiritually. “Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your souls prospers”-3 John 2.

Have you been sick lately? Consider it a “wake-up call” and start safeguarding the precious treasure of your health! “Better safe than sorry”, right? Your treasure is well worth it!