A new level of destiny

"Don't be discouraged by difficulties.   Rather, be encouraged by the trials that you face.  For on the other side of the difficulty is a new level of destiny."

During a tough time in my life, I used to play a CD by Graham Cooke over and over in my car on the drive to work.   My favorite part was   "The lower that God takes you, the higher He will raise you up." 

These quotes give me hope, when times get tough.   I know that God has big plans for my future.  When it feels like the odds are stacked against me, or I am just tired and don't really feel like pushing through, these reminders shine a light on my path.  God never promised there would not be trials or difficulties.   "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  John 16:33.  

We are all walking through something in life that may be more challenging than we bargained for.   Each and every one of us has had to face adversity.   Look around you today, your brothers, sisters, friends, co-workers, classmates and acquaintances are all struggling.   Big or small,  there are many roadblocks in life.   I am writing today to encourage you and even challenge you to "Be the Light".   Encourage other people.   Share a smile with someone who is stressed.   Say a kind word.   Share a kind touch.   Build each other up.    Don't forget your friends who are struggling with difficulties that seem never-ending.  They need your friendship, kindness and hope more than ever. 

The kindness and friendship that has been extended to me in the last 90 days, since I was diagnosed with breast cancer, has been overwhelming to me.   The encouragement of my friends has sustained me and given me a reason to get up each day and fight.   It means the world to me.

I fully acknowledge and admit that I am a selfish person.    I think of myself so much more than I think about others.   I am so guilty in this area, but I want to do better.   I want to be an encouragement to my friends and loved ones.  I think that deep down, we all want to help our friends.  

I am challenging each of you that reads this today to dedicate your week to helping another person, being the light for another person, just being a soft place to land for someone who needs it.   Let's take the focus off of ourselves and turn it onto others.   I know that the blessings we reap from these acts of kindness will be abundant.