Hang in there
Romans 5:3-4 “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Perseverance is an important tool in the toolbox of hope. When ingrained doubts assail you, when little rejections batter your confidence, when failure erodes your determination, whittles away at resolve, and undermines creativity, hang in there. Perseverance is the drop of water in the pool of life that allows the most unlikely of things to happen. And don’t you want to be a part of that? One local church wanted to distribute backpacks to students at the beginning of the school year. It didn’t take long to realize the church couldn’t do it alone. It reached out to other churches and individuals, and before long they had enough funding put together to distribute more than two hundred back packs. Imagine if that first church had given up?
Be happy, it’s a place to start
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. Proverbs 15:30 (NIV)
Happy people are healthier, which in turn helps them heal faster when they are ill. That’s a scientific fact, according to Greater Good at UC Berkley. An independent study published in Canada in 2010, revealed improved health in happy people over a ten-year period. It has also been my observation over time. I’ve seen morose people’s health wane rather quickly when they are ill, which can often be tied to their poor outlook and fear of the worst. People who are innately happy seem to weather health storms stoically, or with humor. Faith plays a role in that because faith affects attitude. Look on the bright side. It really does help.
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These short reading will be included in a book I’m working on entitled 365 Ways to Make the World a Better Place (working title). I value your thoughts and comments. I also welcome short personal essays about what you believe will make the world a better place. Experiences that have made a difference in your life and the lives of others are welcome. The experiences can be yours or the story of someone you know. With permission, I will use the item in my book. If you would like to send an item for consideration, e-mail item to fsharon@msn.com. In the subject line enter 365 Ways.
Sharon Vander Meer 