A few years ago, I went around a neighborhood asking people about their life. Specifically, I was asking them about their spiritual life. It was interesting and entertaining to do such a thing. People opened up to the "open ended questions" and I enjoyed visiting with them.
There was an interesting couple on my journey that I have never forgotten. They made me laugh inside. As we got around to talking about their spiritual life, I asked them about what church they attend. They told me but it was immediately followed with comments that they didn't really like it that well and they weren't that happy. I probed into their answer and asked them if they would ever consider going somewhere else. They replied with a "no." As the conversation continued, they basically said they were "set" with where they were at and not likely going to change.
What is it about people that they don't want to change? There are lots of reasons and the parameters of the topic will determine the ability of change in a person. We are all different. One of the things I like about life is that it changes. I change. My environment changes. Everything changes.
However, if we would be open to some changes, we'd likely be amazed at what we can do. That brings us to this week's quote...
Your are an unfinished work in progress. One of the good things about life's challenges: You get to find out that you're capable of being far more than you ever thought possible. ~ Karen Salmansohn
As you journey "between the dash" in your life, there are lots of stops along the way. You will change with each stop. They may be minor changes but there will be changes. You are a work in progress and you will change.
The other great thing is that what you are capable of is never quite known until you are presented with a challenge that speaks to that greatness. There are many great things hidden inside all of us that will bring out the best in us, within the realm of that obstacle.
When I was a freshman in high school, I took a typing class. I was lazy and barely made a "C" in the class. Over the years, I have been able to have a lot of experience in typing and am now pretty good and quick in my typing. I was able to rise to the challenge and overcome some of the obstacles.
My favorite challenge to overcome was the fact of what is now known as being "bullied." Living in the moment was not good but God allowed me to move past it and I revel in the fact of trying to encourage others through their challenges.
May you live up to the challenges that come your way. You are an unfinished work. There are great things ahead. Respond to the obstacles with greatness!
Now it's your turn...how has life presented you with challenges which you've been able to overcome? Are you experiencing challenges now that you need to overcome?
I recently saw a saying (of which I cannot remember) that highlighted the difference something small can make a large difference. If you notice the picture, it is such a small mistake, but the mistake makes such an "egg all over your face" difference. Now, everyone will see this mistake and talk about it for years to come. There is such a difference in just rearranging some letters.
People utilize their lives much the same way. They can be so close to doing something extraordinary that they stop themselves just short. I have heard illustrations that highlighted this point. Someone may have been traveling in the dark and given up just short of finding safety, for instance. They didn't realize they were where they wanted to be because they couldn't see it. However, if they would have simply kept going, they would have found their goal.
The above paragraph is one reason there are times I push through to get to the end. I know I will feel better to get to point B! I need some motivation to move me. How about you? Have you pushed through when you wanted to quit? Have you quit simply because you didn't see the point? These thoughts bring us to this week's quote...
Successful and unsuccessful people do not vary greatly in their abilities. They vary in their desires to reach their potential. ~ John Maxwell
Over the past several years there have been shows on television which have given people opportunities to "make it." One of the more popular types of shows is centered around singing. First, we had American Idol. That stage has brought people into positions to have a recording contract that may have not otherwise made it.
Prior to auditioning for the show, they may have had a really simple job. They were simple people living simple lives. As they progressed, they became simple people with "living the dream" life.
You have a dream. You may have more than one dream. What do you need to do to break through the membrane to go from unsuccessful to successful? Remember, the difference in people to do so is not much, it matters in your desire. Where is your desire?
Are you ready to do something greater? Look for it and use those passionate desires to reach your potential!
Now it's your turn...what areas does this hold true for you?
