Monday, March 10, 2008

What I Try to Remember...

Almost a year and a half ago, I was diagnosed with a chronic disease called Ulcerative Colitis. I had been struggling with pain, exhaustion, and frustration. At that time, I wrote a list of things I to try to remember. Since then, the list has hung in my bedroom. I thought I'd share with you an abbreviated version.

Bullet copy View setbacks as opportunities to grow. By striving to overcome difficulties in your life, you will gain strength, virtue, and character.

Bullet copy People have different limitations, so do not compare your capabilities (or incapabilities) to others'. Your life is not made of limits, but of freedom. Focus on what you can do, rather than what you are unable to do. Your individuality is specific and unique. Offer the world your individual gifts and talents. Live your life abundantly.

Bullet copy Everything will work out, maybe not the way you originally planned, but it will resolve itself. View the situation with long term vision. This will often make the present clearer. Be patient. Things often take longer than we think they should.

Bullet copy Transcend yourself and love one another. Love is not a feeling, but a continual choice to work for the beloved's ultimate happiness. Love means giving a continual self-gift freely.

Bullet copy God never gives us more than we can handle. He always provides the necessary grace.

Bullet copy Build one another up; do not tear down. Do not worry what others think of you. They are probably worrying about what you think of them. Live confidently, knowing that you were created with intrinsically unique qualities.

Bullet copy God loves you more than you can possibly imagine. He is always with you. Prayer is a mutual conversation; remember to shut up.