I
can do anything. I have learned this truth this past year. I have been on a
hard journey of recovery. I could have died, but God gave me a second chance to
live, and life is a precious gift. I am doing my best to live fully, to
treasure the life that I have been given.
I
want to share the hope that I have. I want to ignite a flicker of hope in
others, reminding them that anything is possible.
I spent 2 months in a deep coma, at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, where I could not talk, or walk, or even move on my own. From July until October, I was at Holland Bloorview, a children’s rehab hospital. In August, when I was at home visiting my family, on my dad’s birthday, I spoke my first sentences. This past school year, I have spent at home with therapists, teachers and support workers, and I have relearned how to walk, balance, think and communicate. I am recovering.
Our attitudes are very important. They shape us. They have a huge impact on life. It is important to not face each day with a crummy attitude. Instead, put on a smile, be thankful, and face each day with hope and strength.
“Life is 10% what happens to us, and 90% of how we
react to it.” We can’t control everything that happens to us, but we can
control our attitudes. Expect the unexpected - something totally out of the
ordinary, and when that happens, you’ll be ready to embrace it, whatever “it”
is.
Over
the last year, I have gone through many mixed emotions. There were times at
night, when I felt like giving up, but God gave me hope. In the morning, I
awoke with a new perspective, renewed faith, and determination. When hard times
come your way, when the unexpected happens, do not lose hope or give up. Have
faith, a positive attitude and you’ll find strength for each step of your
journey. Thank you for encouraging me in mine.
One last note, before I sign off, possibly for the summer: Lydia and I will be guests on 100 Huntley Street on Wednesday July 10, in the morning. We will be sharing about our experiences this past year: about a loving and faithful God who can hold us and care for us, in every situation, in every moment.
Until we blog again, remember Romans 12:12: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.