Never underestimate the power of the human spirit! There are those who, when burdened with an overwhelming life event come through it stronger and more able to stand against the next crazy life event that could have them crawling on their knees. Then there are others who, when dealt a crushing blow, are devastated to the point of immobility and can’t rise above the situation.
When a person has a life-threatening health crisis, like latter stage cancer, does that person stand up and fight it with their last breath or do they resign themselves to their bed to die?
In a health crisis, we never see those who have lost their battle to cancer without a fight. Some retreat into themselves to waste away and die with their family and friends dismayed they wouldn’t fight to live…not only for their family and friends but for themselves. Some give up when their friends and family never wanted them to give up. Others fight until their last breath. Even though they lose the battle, they have fought. Even through death, they have risen above their circumstances. If you’re suffering from cancer, fight the good fight, be strong, and give yourself and your family hope!
A couple of great examples of high-profile individuals who had fought the fight to their last breath. Farrah Fawcett looked for every known cure and Patrick Swayze continued to work throughout his treatment. Both lost their battle with cancer but did so with dignity and strength.
What about when a kid is bullied? Does he constructively fight back or does he retreat into himself possibly committing suicide?
We often hear about kids committing suicide because they were bullied. Sometimes it’s a genuine wish to shed light on bullying and how awful it is for the kid’s family and friends. But oftentimes, it’s a political entreaty to advance someone’s agenda which is totally not cool.
But what about the kids who rise above the bullying? Why don’t we hear about those kids? Today I watched a video of an 11-year-old kid who took free violin lessons because the kids at school bullied him because he had cancer. Kids can be cruel and merciless. They have no filters or have not been taught any filters. But this boy made my heart sing. He appeared on America’s Got Talent and blew everyone away with his violin playing. He made it to the television show. What an example of how the human spirit can overcome. This boy chose music to overcome his heartache over being bullied. Other’s may choose sports or some other positive way to overcome.
What about when a person has lost every possession to a hurricane, tornado, or flooding? Does the person retreat to a homeless shelter never to be heard from again or does he take action and rebuild his home and his life?
When a person loses everything, it is total defeat. They have nothing. No clothing, no memorabilia, no means of personal identification. They become lost. How do they come back from such a devastating life event?
Personally, I trust in the Lord when some life event brings me lower than dirt. I know it works. It gives me peace and strength. God gives us what we need when we need it if we call on Him to help in our time of need.
Several years ago, my 61-year-old husband lost his job. I was afraid at first then I remembered God had it all in the palm of His hand. I told my husband we’d pray about it and let God lead us. And lead us, He did. My husband got a job offer not three weeks later. To say it was a miracle is an understatement. Who hires a 61-year-old man who is almost ready to retire in a few years? God can do anything, even heal the sick and restore a home.
I don’t know if any of the people described here trusted in the Lord but I believe the Lord gives us strength and power to overcome. It comes from within. It comes from Him.
What are your thoughts on where your strength comes from?