Push Harder! As my doctor's urgent words echoed throughout the maternity wing and pierced through my dulled senses (thanks to a strong epidural) the choice was clear. The moment my son's vitals began dropping into the danger zone, I morphed from a wimp into a warrior. There is nothing in the world that I would trade for the joy that one last push gave me. It seems a suitable nod to Corbin's July birthday to ask readers two important questions: How often do we give up right before a breakthrough? Why do we assume that a closed door means "No Access?" Your personal response to barriers is likely a deeply ingrained mindset.
Even the most determined person has a breaking point. To be honest and transparent, lately, I have straddled that line. I lost my brother last month and I was praying for a miracle of healing. There were roadblocks in my life where God had promised an open hand of provision. My family support systems had imploded; sometimes the discouragement was so palpable that darkness obscured the sun. So why does God allow the struggle? Is it cruel for the caterpillar to fight its way out of the cocoon? Of course not! Intervention would likely result in weakness, lack of development or even death--instead of the most beautiful transformation.
I often hear about successful people who experience decades of failure before launching into their destinies. While that tidbit may offer some perspective, it does little to silence the nagging voice that speaks mediocrity over our lives. You might even recognize the soothing tune because it resembles a lullaby (with harmonious and repetitive excuses) but it leads to dulled senses and missed opportunities. There is no dignity or honor in walking the path of least resistance. So what can we do to set ourselves apart for maximum impact in the world?
First, it is important to remember that difficulty is a breeding ground. So what will it breed in you? Each disappointment can become either a millstone or a stepping stone. I have determined to learn from my mistakes instead of becoming bitter. Next, accept that not every voice in your life has equal value, so learn to filter out the messages of scarcity and rejection and focus on possibility and acceptance. In fact, my new motto (when faced with negative feedback) is to embrace the challenge (to prove it wrong) and grow through it. Finally, be willing to strategize and adjust before plowing ahead. But above all, PRAY.
Pushing harder means never choosing to settle or accept failure as our birthright. It means that we give the very best of ourselves because we are a reflection of Christ. We serve a God who laughs at the word "impossible" because it doesn't fit His character. The world will set limitations and well-intentioned family and friends may try to rock you into the miserable sleep of the mundane. Reject the urge to give up, because your life depends on it. Rise up when the waves knock you down. Be relentless. Destiny waits just behind the turbulence!
May we never tire of doing what is good and right before our Lord because in His season we shall bring in a great harvest if we can just persist.
-GALATIANS 6:9 (THE VOICE)
Wow. I couldn't agree more. This comment never displayed before either. But it's so powerful! Thanks for adding this.
As teachers, we are always encouraging students, lifting up their spirits, helping them reach their goals, and along with this, there will be criticisms. It's through the criticisms that we grow and change and become even better teachers. Pushing even harder, we can rejoice with our students and their victories. It's great to be a teacher!!!