Andrew Smith's Blog

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Showing posts with label journey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label journey. Show all posts

Mission Completed

I had my run for St. Jude’s Research Hospital on Saturday, June 12. It was extremely hot in Nashville, TN. The humidity was smoldering to anybody’s body. The run was at 8 am. This little girl named Ellen Taylor kicked off the 5k run with the National Anthem. One guy juggled balls during the whole walk/run. I don’t know how he did that. I did good to walk and run it. Then two girls walked and hula hooped the whole run. I only had about two months to prepare for the run. I could only run for 0.31 miles. Then my right foot started killing me, but I finished the 5k. Most people walked and some ran the whole time. But the reason we all came together was for the children not for being first.

Someone recorded this video of Ellen Taylor performing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaJKOWvhL5g

I would like to thank everyone who has read and supported me during this run/walk. Thank you everyone who donated or who has ever donated to St. Jude’s. I even saw young kids ranging from 3 to 16 helping one another. I even saw some older people helping and running. The world would be a much better place, if we all would just reach out and move along and help one another. We can’t live in fear or let our doubts hold us back any longer. So thank you for reading any of my posts.

I went to Nashville for the CMA Fest too. It was my first time going and it was a blast. I only went to three of the four nightly concerts. I was hurting and too sore to stay for the last night. But I got to see a lot of artists and TV show stars. I even got to met some of them, which was awesome. I went to the Convention Center which is where artists sign at booths. My favorite would have to be Point of Grace. They made me feel like they cared about me as a fan. We connected and Leigh even remembered my name. Point of Grace did a free concert at the Music City Zone and Leigh said, “We met Andrew today. Hey Andrew” I got a picture of her pointing at me. I about flipped out. If you ever get the chance to go to the CMA Fest, it is worth it. It was crazy and hot though just to warn you. Nashville is very hot! Two of the best singers at the nightly concerts would have been Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride. They rocked it! Everyone who performed was great! But they were my favorite, if I had to pick two.

I also heard of a new artist, Danny Gokey. Yes, he is from American Idol too. I got his new CD this week and it is great. I like most of the tracks and I agree with this dude. His first single called, “My Best Days Are Ahead of Me” is a song about looking ahead in life and not living in the past.

Here are the lyrics:

“Life hasn't always been a party but mostly it's been good There's only one or two things that I'd change if I could I don’t get lost in the past or get stuck in some sad memory yah My best days are ahead of me

Age is nothing but a number Sometimes I have to wonder What does it really mean But hey I’m still putting it together I keep getting better if I keep getting better I can be whatever I want to be My best days are ahead of me”

Here is the powerful video for the song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qqus079lUz8

I know we all have some things we regret but the past is the past. We CAN’T change it. No matter how much we would like to change some things. We all make mistakes. But all we can do is pray for forgiveness and receive it. Then move on. As the song says, “My Best Days Are Ahead of Me” we have to believe that.

Who knows maybe I will run another one completely one day.

“Forget perfect. Perfect is boring! Our bodies are beautiful, no matter how narrow our cultures definitions might be. Embrace your perceived imperfections- they make you unique- and love who you are. It’s the only way to move forward.” Jillian Michaels “Winning By Losing” Page 6

Oh and my supporters raised $500 dollars for the run. Which I couldn’t have done it, without you thank you again. I made my goal with everyone’s help. $5,110.00 was raised by Team Messina so far. They are still counting the donations. I believe you can still donate so I don’t have any clue, when they will stop the donations. $27,019.10 has been raised for the St. Jude’s so far! Let’s just pray that we help save a life with all the donations and maybe we will find the cure to cancer!

Determination - Never Giving Up

I will never give up in helping to raise money and awareness for St. Jude’s 5K run! I heard this song and it fits my life. I can’t give up in running my 5K. I will run this! I can do this!

Here is a song called, “Never Say Never”. It is by Justin Bieber and Jaden Smith.

“You see I never thought that I could walk through fire I never thought that I could take a burn I never had the strength to take it higher Until I reach the point of no return And there's just no turnin back When your heart's under attack Gonna give everything I have It's my destiny I will never say never (I will fight) I will fight till forever (make it right) Whenever you knock me down I will not stay on the ground Pick it up, pick it up Pick it up, pick it up (up up up...) And never say never (ne-never say never x3)”

Here is the video for “Never Say Never”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z5-P9v3F8w

I watched Jillian Michael’s new show last night. It’s called “Losing It with Jillian” and it’s on NBC. One of the quotes I like that Jillian Michael said, “I am going to give you one warning, don’t say I can’t to me.” She is a very tough coach who is all about fitness and being healthy. She also said, “You know what you’re doing right now. You’re quitting”. The show is very moving and motivating. She made this family mother run a 5K. Kind of ironic isn’t it? I am kind of like the Jones family. I can relate to Deb (mother of the Jones Family) letting people and the voices to push her down.

Here is an 8 week program by Jillian Michael in training for a 5K Run:

http://www.nbc.com/losing-it-with-jillian/exclusives/jones/sedentary-to-5k.pdf

I would like to thank everyone who has prayed for me for this run and donated to St. Jude’s. I can do this with your support! I have my family and friends and even strangers depending on me to finish this run. I have to have the determination to finish this running event. I will do it! The cancer patients have to face living with cancer every day. I can at least raise support and money and believe that I will finish this race. God is for me! Let’s believe our money will help the doctors find cures for the patients. We are going to believe God for his favor and for his healing. God is still in control and always will be! We will pray that God will bless everyone and he will.

“So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture: They kill us in cold blood because they hate you. We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one. None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.” Romans 8:31 (The Message)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:31&version=MSG

Here is a message thanking you for your support from Keith Urban:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffq59mGMI94

This is what it means to be a part a St. Jude Heroes Program:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-Tn8M9Y6rQ
Here is “Just Stand Up” by Various Artists:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2hPmcyJBDc

That song makes me want to keep going!

I hope you will consider supporting me and praying for me for my 5K run! You can help save a life.

Here is “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sad2_p1EOic

She let this little girl with cancer walk on stage.

A little background on St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital is that it was founded by Danny Thomas in 1962. Because of your donations, families never have to pay for anything not covered by insurance companies.

Read more about St. Jude: No Place Like St. Jude multimedia presentation

http://www.stjude.org/stjude/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=b842499d66678110VgnVCM1000001e0215acRCRD&vgnextchannel=776c13c016118010VgnVCM1000000e2015acRCRD


To support St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital click the link below:

http://www.mystjudeheroes.org/hopenow

"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.' "Then he will turn to the 'goats,' the ones on his left, and say, 'Get out, worthless goats! You're good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because— I was hungry and you gave me no meal, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was homeless and you gave me no bed, I was shivering and you gave me no clothes, Sick and in prison, and you never visited.' "Then those 'goats' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or homeless or shivering or sick or in prison and didn't help?' "He will answer them, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you failed to do one of these things to someone who was being overlooked or ignored, that was me—you failed to do it to me.'” Matthew 25:37-45 (The Message)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025:37-46&version=MSG

Week 8

Day 1 – Friday, June 4

I went a total of 0.64 miles and I took a total of 1354 steps. I burned a mass sum of 39 calories.

Day 2 – Saturday, June 5

In my journey for my run for St. Jude, I took a total of 3460 steps. I went for a grand total of 1.63 miles. I burned a total of 98 calories.

Day 3 – Sunday, June 6

I went an enormous sum of 4.65 miles! I smoldered a full amount of 284 calories. I took about 9824 steps! Wow, I can do this!

Day 4 – Monday, June 7

I went for an extensive amount of 1.52 miles. I burned a total of 91 calories. I took a complete sum of 3219 steps.

Thank you supporting me and for helping so many children living with cancer. You are helping make a difference in their lives. When we all come together, we can change the world for the better. May God bless you! Never give up! Everyone can be happy and have joy, if they choose too.

Forgiveness and Letting Go

Day 3 – Sunday, May 30


Don’t you see Satan has stopped people from connecting to one another? He has spread strife everywhere. We who are Christians have to grow up and help each other. I have got to reach out to the loners, angry controlled, sad, hurting, fakers, and EVERYONE. How are we going to reach people if they hear and see us acting bad? I have a hard time faking a smile. I wear my life. But this past week in writing about my days and journey in my run. I felt the need to cover this. I felt like it was time to let it all go. I don’t need to be anger, selfish, bitter, sad, and a never happy Christian. I need to have joy, peace, kindness, love, and all the fruits of the spirit. I know I’m not going to be perfect, but I have to keep growing and learning. If we are judging and rejecting people who are different from us and our friends. We aren’t going to show them love. We have got to try and show them love and what it means to be a Christian.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 (King James Version)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:22-24&version=KJV

I heard this song called, “American Honey” by Lady Antebellum. One of the verses says, “Get caught in the race Of this crazy life Tryin' to be everything can make you lose your mind I just wanna go back in time”. That line in the song is about the truth. It can make you lose your mind. I have had a lot of people trying to tell me how to be and who to be. I need to be more in shape, more manly, write neater, walk better, speak more, and talk better. This is who I am. I guess I don’t fit the mold and the stereotype. But you can’t please everyone. You can change yourself and lose who you are on the inside, but you won’t be you then. You were created to be you and only one! If you needed to be that other person God would have made you like them. Be yourself!

In Natalie Grant’s book called, “The Real Me”, she shared her story about trying to deal with looking her best. If you have struggled or are struggling with an eating disorder this book is for you. She struggled with an eating disorder in her life. She is trying to help others see that you need to be the real you.

Natalie Grant says, “Sometimes I feel like the world is made up of two kinds of people: people pleasers (those who so need to be loved and accepted that they go to great lengths to be loved and yet never feel they deserve it), and people who are never pleased with anything (those from whom the pleasers try so desperately to get love and attention but who can’t seem to see beyond their own wants and needs).” Page 46

We all want to feel loved and loveable. But we all want to be accepted and included. I know it hurts who people rejected you and hurt you. We all say hurtful things to one another. So it’s important to forgive one another. I know it’s hard but its way harder not too. Carrying that hurt is very agonizing. It only hurts you. I know because this was me. I wasn’t enjoying my life. It doesn’t hurt the other person. The other person is living life and enjoying it and you’re not. You’re carrying around the pain and hurt. You have to let it go. It frees you to forgive one another. I know pain hurts a whole lot. But sometimes the person doesn’t even realize they hurt you. You have to forgive them anyway. This weekend was a forgiving weekend for me. And I had to let the comments go and stop letting them define and control me.

I know what it is like to hurt someone too. We are all fallible people and need to ask for forgiveness every day. We all make mistakes. I know I too have said and done things I shouldn’t have done. I am sorry for every single thing I have done to hurt someone in any way. Thank God his love never changes for us. He never gives up on us, even when we give up on ourselves. God forgives us the first time, when we ask for forgiveness. So it is extremely important to forgive one another.

Most things we fight about and get upset about are so small in the scope of life.

I want to share this powerful life changing video with you. It gives me the chills.

Here are some of the lyrics to “So Small” By Carrie Underwood:

“What you got if you ain't got love The kind that you just want to give away It's ok to open up Go ahead and let the light shine through I know it's hard on a rainy day You wanna shut the world out and just be left alone But don't run out on your faith Cause sometimes that mountain you've been climbing Is just a grain of sand And what you've been out there searching for forever Is in your hands And when you figure out love is all that matters after all It sure makes everything else seem So Small”

Here is this impacting video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEQj6RrQbgA

This week, Joyce Meyer told us a secret on her show. “Want to know a secret? We will even tell the people watching by TV. Here’s the secret: The better you treat people, the happier you’re going to be.” The message is called, “Imitate God’s Giving”. Next Joyce said, “It’s like how many more times are we going to have to the bible study on forgiveness before we get around to realizing that when you forgive somebody, you’re going yourself a favor. Why should you waste your life being mad at someone that’s out having a good time and couldn’t care less if you’re upset? Come on, we got more smarts than that.”

“For if you forgive people their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14 (Amplified Bible)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%206:14&version=AMP
“And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (Amplified Bible)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=esphesians%204:32&version=AMP

I went 1.61 miles on my running for St. Jude’s. I burned a total of 99 calories. I took 3413 steps. Any amounts of donations helps find the cure for the children.
“All patients accepted for treatment at St. Jude are treated without regard to the family's ability to pay.” From St. Jude Website

This is why it is important that we help raise money for the children. We could help save their life and countless others. It can only happen when we all come together.

If you could make a small donation visit the link below: Every little bit helps.
http://www.mystjudeheroes.org/hopenow

I also went swimming today for the first time in a while.

Day 4 – Monday, May 31

I went a total of 0.91 miles today. I burned a mass sum of 48 calories. I took 1923 steps. I also went swimming today. Anything to help me get stronger.
Day 5 – Tuesday, June 1

I went a full amount of 2.19 miles today. I flamed a total of 131 calories to the highway to health. I took a grand total of 4639 steps today.
Day 6 – Wednesday, June 2

I went an entirety of 3.38 miles in my journey of a 5K. I burned a mass total of 203 calories. I took 7145 steps in my run/walk.
Day 7 – Thursday, June 3

I smothered a total of 236 calories today. I went for a grand total of 3.85 miles today. I took 8136 steps.

I went swimming a few times this week. I am committed to getting stronger and healthier.

"Its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. St. Jude has treated children from all 50 states and from around the world." "The daily operating cost for St. Jude is $1.5 million, which is primarily covered by public contributions." I got this from St. Jude.

If you can help in any way please do. Thank you for anyone who has donated and read this whole post. I hope it helped you in some way. Get out there and make a difference! 

Feel free to share this site with your friends.

In closing the post. Here some of the lyrics to “The Words I Would Say” by Sidewalk Prophets:

“Be strong in the Lord and, Never give up hope, You're going to do great things, I already know, God's got His hand on you so, Don't live life in fear, Forgive and forget, But don't forget why you're here, Take your time and pray, These are the words I would say.”

Here a video of the song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thLdWPr32yY

Sad Times But There's Still Hope

Day 4 – Monday, May 24

I went a total of 2.51 miles today. I burned a sum of 158 calories. I took a whole total of 5302 steps.

Day 5 – Tuesday, May 25

I had to go to a love ones funeral today. It was a very sad day. But she lived a long life. She was one of the nicest ladies you could ever meet. She always went to church and she helped spread the love. That is what church is all about. I know her family misses her very much. But she is in a place with no pain now. She is sitting up there with Jesus and dancing away. I got to see some of my family and her friends. It’s kind of sad you only see this many people when someone dies. We should always be this close, when we are alive. I know many people are busy making a living, but take some time to spend it well with people you love. Think of how many people we could reach out to, if we just would do it. I remember how she used to get me off the bus sometimes. I also remember hanging out with my cousins at her house many times. This song was a song I thought fit her life. She had a lot of love to go around. I wanted to put this song on a family slideshow we did for my whole family at Christmastime. But we found other ones to include on it instead. But my point is I had the honor and privilege to be a part of my family’s history. She sat near my dad at my family Christmas dinner. He had to tell her who most of the people were. But she knew some. Her memory has been going for a while. But I know now in Heaven she remembers everything. She knows her family. The song is called, “Some Things Never Change” by Sara Evans. I want to thank the pastors and the church members who helped provide food for her huge family and friends. They had two rows of maybe 6 tables. They had to add another row. We had that many people. I didn’t count the tables I am estimating. But anyone who came saw a lot of people. Thank you. Thank you to the pastors who said nice things about her. Thank you to the people who sung at the funeral. Thank you for your prayers and your condolences.

Here is “Some Things Never Change”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkIWI1YH3nI

Another song that popped in my mind during these crazy times was a song by Mandisa. The song is called, “You Wouldn’t Cry (Andrew’s Song)”. The song is a about someone who is already in Heaven. He or she is telling that it is going to be okay. Jesus has them and you. Sometimes we get stuck in wanting to know why. I can’t answer that question. All I know is if I died I am going to Heaven. I know it’s hard when you lose someone you love. But we have to have hope that one day we will see them again someday. I know it hurts when someone leaves us on this earth. But if they knew Jesus and you do then you will see them again.

Listen to Mandisa’s “You Wouldn’t Cry (Andrew’s Song)”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFOdA52sjFA

Some of the lyrics are listed below:

“All you saw was pain All you saw was rain But you should see me now Moments filled with tears Lasted all those years disappeared somehow You never said goodbye On your knees you cry You’re still asking why, but Blue has never been bluer True has never been truer Honey never tasted so sweet There’s a song in the breeze A million voices in praise A rose has never smelled redder The sun has never been brighter If I could find the right words to say If you could look at my face If you could just see this place You wouldn’t cry for me today.”

If you like to see Andrew’s Story, check out the link below: Mandisa shares the message behind the song.

http://www.tangle.com/view_video?viewkey=980a2cb94bf283772d30

Day 6 – Wednesday, May 26

I went a grand total of 3.00 miles today. I smoked a total of 206 calories. 6347 steps were taken by me today.

Day 7 – Thursday, May 27

All I have today is a song to share.

Here is some of the lyrics of “You're Gonna Be” By Reba McEntire.

You're gonna fly with every dream you chase You're gonna cry, but know that that's okay Sometimes life's not fair, but if you hang in there You're gonna see that sometimes bad is good We just have to believe things work out like they should Life has no guarantees, but always loved by me You're gonna be

Here is the video for “You’re Gonna Be”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kLs4VdfFlQ

“‘Cause anything worth doing is worth doing all the way Just know you'll have to live with all the choices that you make So make sure you're always givin' way more than you're takin'”

So let’s listen to these lyrics! That is the truth.

You can be whoever you choose to be. You can choose to love or choose to hate. It’s all a decision.

Check out:

http://sites.google.com/site/theofficialandrewsmith/week6

Change Your World : One Step at a Time

Maybe you’re wondering how we can help others. If fact maybe you feel small and like it doesn’t matter. Sometimes we have no clue on how to reach out to one another. Sometimes maybe we stereotype each other based on their appearance and how they act. Granted we are all human. We all feel emotions and we all think with our minds. But helping one another and being kind to one another makes a HUGE different. It makes the world a better place. After all this is only our temporary home.


We only live on this earth for so long. But it all comes down to living and loving along your trip in life. You only have one life to live and love. Yes, things will bring you down sometimes. Yes, you will make mistakes and have to be forgiven. But you have a life, you have been given. That’s why it is important to love each other.

I know some people have hurt you. Maybe I have. But it is essential we forgive one another for each other’s mistakes. We only get one trip to pass through this life. It’s your choice on, if you stay negative and depressed. But you can be happy, if you will choose too. Reading and knowing God helps me get through this crazy ride called “Life”.

We need to be happy in this life. Yes, you will sometimes feel down and sad. But you can get happy and whole again with Jesus. We need our friends and our family. I know some of you dread seeing your family and maybe even some of your friends but you still need to show them love. I don’t know what you’re going through right now but God is still in control. I know sometimes we like to ask the questions why. I can’t answer the why questions. Neither can you. We just have to hang on in this life. If they know Jesus, then we will see them all again someday. Just keep believing things will turn around for the better. Right now, you may not be able to see why things turned out the way they did. But God is still there for you.

Life is way too short to hold on to anger and regrets. You can’t do anything about your past. But you can change your future. You have to heal from whatever is hurting you right now. Maybe its anger and lashing out at people, feeling depressed about your life, hating yourself, abusing someone (or yourself), bitterness, fearful, and anything else. God can take your past and forgive you, if you did something wrong. He can also heal your past that may have hurt you. Maybe you need to forgive people who hurt you. I know I have hurt people with words and actions. I have been hurt by actions and words as well. But God can heal you. I have been working with God to help me heal and let go of some of the pain of my past. I know it is hard to forgive sometimes. Nothing in you sometimes wants too. But it frees you from the pain and hurt. People make mistakes daily and need forgiveness. We all do. We all are human and hurt one another.

Sometimes helping someone is lending a helping hand, donating money, your time, things (clothes, etc), praying, smiling, and loving one another. It doesn’t have to make a huge impact on the world. I know sometimes we think we have to see our names in lights or on TV. But that doesn’t mean everything in life. 15 minutes of fame will always fade away. Look at how much stardom changes for the celebrities out there. One minute you’re in the next you’re fading away.

We have to focus on helping someone, when no one is looking, and there are no cameras around. We can all have an impact on the world but by bring love not hate. We have enough haters out there. We have to love and help people, who can’t give us something in return. This world is not all about you and getting presents. All the presents in the world wouldn’t make you happy. Yes, it might for a day. Then you’re going to the store again to buy something else new. You’re looking to be filled up. Only Jesus can fill that void. I am not saying to never buy anything just don’t buy the whole dept. store. Unless, you own the company would you need all that stuff. I know some people fill that void with drugs, sex, being in love with yourself (thinking you’re better than everyone else), greed, hate, and loving things too much. You need to love yourself but not be in love with yourself. The world isn’t just about me or you. I know it’s hard to give and love people sometimes. But we have to as Joyce Meyer says, “Do It for God”.

I want to share with you a song called, “Change” by Carrie Underwood.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H0EY4Rrpf4

What are you telling yourself? Maybe you’re telling yourself, you can’t help someone because you have too many problems. You can smile can’t ya! Then smile a little! There a number of different ways to help. You can give money or your time. Now get out there and lend a helping hand. Make someone else’s life better for good. It’s your choice.
Here are some of the lyrics to “It’s Your Life” by Francesca Battistelli:

“It’s your life What you gonna do? The world is watching you Every day the choices you make Say what you are and who Your heart beats for It’s an open door It’s your life To live the way that you believe This is your opportunity To let your life be one that lights the way”

Week 6

Day 1 – Friday, May 21
I went a total of 1.85 miles today. I burned a total of 112 calories. I took an accumulation total of 3928 steps.

Day 2 – Saturday, May 22
I went for a grand total of 1.51 miles in my running journey. I burned a total of 99 calories. I took 3208 steps in the shoes, which were made for walking scenario.

Day 3 – Sunday, May 23

I went an impressive 1.15 miles today on the treadmill at that. Yes, that is right. I smoldered a total of 83 calories. I obtained a full amount of 2433 steps in this day and time.

In leaving you, with some hope, here is a song called, “No Boundaries” by Kris Allen.

“With every step, you climb another mountain Every breathe, it's harder to believe You'll make it through the pain, weather the hurricanes To get to that one thing Just when you think the road is going nowhere Just when you almost gave up on your dreams They take you by the hand and show you that you can There are no boundaries”

I am not giving up on running a 5K! I haven’t given up and I won’t! Too many people are depending on me. It is all for a wonderful cause. I am doing it for cancer patients, who are getting treatment at St. Jude’s. If you can help in any way please do.

Check out my Google Site.

http://sites.google.com/site/theofficialandrewsmith/

Journey of My Run Week 5 : Day 1 - 4

Day 1 – Friday, May 14

I went a total of 1.08 miles. I burned only about 73 calories. I took 2281 steps on the track. I didn’t do so well today. But I am doing this 5K run for St. Jude’s! As the song sung by Journey always says, “Don’t Stop Believing”. What Would You Do? TV Show came on tonight. I love the concept of that show. It makes me think about what I would do if I were in their shoes. Would I stand up for something that is wrong? Would I even notice? Would I care? Would I help? See, ask yourself those questions. It makes you want to reach out your hand and stand up for certain things. I also lifted weights today. I lifted my magic number 40.

Day 2 – Saturday, May 15

I went for a total of 1.29 miles. So I went a little bit more today. I burned about 70 calories. I took a total of 2736 steps. The humidly was very scorching today. I also lifted 40 pounds of weights today.

Day 3 – Sunday, May 16

I went a mass sum of 2.77 miles today! I am increasing for once. 174 calories left my body today by exercising. I took about 5852 steps in my journey. I took a day off on lifting weights on my machine. Each day I am getting stronger! I can do this. Please support me in my journey by donating to St. Jude’s the children need your help. They are already going through a lot. Your money helps them get better. Any amount helps them. Big and small and short and tall; size doesn’t matter.

I found this video about Jake Olson. He is a hero! Jake Olson is working on two books on his cancer story. They aren’t released yet, but they are written. I have tried to find information about the books. But I can’t seem to find them. Or I would tell you what they are called. A little background about Jake Olson, he has had cancer 8 times. He didn’t give up. That is a true hero. Watch the video and you can hear his story from his own words.

Jake Olson Cancer Story:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX0ovhkgR7s

Day 4 – Monday, May 17

I ran about three laps! I stopped in some of them. But I ran for the most part. I also lifted weights again today. Finally, I was able to go 5 laps total! Totally pumped! I am improving little by little. My mother also pointed out both of my legs is looking more muscular, which is a benefit to running laps around the track. I went for a total of 2.23 miles. I burned around 160 calories. I took 4720 steps. I pushed myself a little harder today. I heard this song come on my I-pod when I was running. The song is called, “The Power of One” by Bomshel. I hadn’t heard this song before, until it came on my I-pod. It was a free song from I-Tunes a while back. You can still buy the song on I-Tunes. It is also available on the Evan Almighty soundtrack. I needed this song today in my run.

The lyrics goes something like this:

“One grain of sand can turn the tide One single spark can light the night One simple dream One gentle word One act of love from someone Can start a chain reaction It all begins in the heart In the power of one”

The verses tell us about Rosa Parks, Anne Frank, Jesus, and everyday people. It opened my eyes. You can make a different no matter, what your age is. Race doesn’t matter, you can change the world. We don’t ever have to feel like we can’t make a different. Don’t buy into the lies and the excuses on why you can’t help. Trash those excuses! You may feel like all of those names included in the song are great people. Jesus is a true example of love and kindness. But Rosa Parks and Anne Frank are people just like you and me. They had a choice to choose to help inspire many people. They helped change the world in small ways. You could easily be the next person who helps someone. You don’t have to famous or go down in history to do it. Just be you and help somebody.

Watch this video someone made for “The Power of One”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIIXoOXj0Ek

Another song that I want to share with you is “Legacy” by Nichole Nordeman.

“I want to leave a legacy How will they remember me? Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough To make a mark on things? I want to leave an offering A child of mercy and grace who blessed your name unapologetically And leave that kind of legacy”

Watch the video below of “Legacy”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vbi4nSrhRxo

I want to ask you something. What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? Do you want to be known for not helping someone else in their time of need? I know you’re thinking they don’t help me. Well, help them anyways and it will come back to you.

“Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 (The Message)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+9%3A7&version=MSG&src=embed

"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.' Then he will turn to the 'goats,' the ones on his left, and say, 'Get out, worthless goats! You're good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because— I was hungry and you gave me no meal, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was homeless and you gave me no bed, I was shivering and you gave me no clothes, Sick and in prison, and you never visited.' Then those 'goats' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or homeless or shivering or sick or in prison and didn't help?' He will answer them, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you failed to do one of these things to someone who was being overlooked or ignored, that was me—you failed to do it to me.' Then those 'goats' will be herded to their eternal doom, but the 'sheep' to their eternal reward." Matthew 25:31-46 (The Message)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+25%3A31-46&version=MSG&src=embed

We need to have more joy in life! We have got to smile more. We need to the kind of people that go out of our way to help one another. Please donate below and help the children of St. Jude’s. They are living with cancer every single day. Cancer doesn’t care if you are young or old. It affects everyone. We all know people who have or survived cancer. You might think you can’t help, but you can! We can help raise money and help support these kids. If you can’t support ask your friends to help. Help promote it! They need people to believe in them.

I hope you will support me in me running a 5K. All the money goes directly to St. Jude’s. I am just a writer. That’s just one of the gifts, God has given me. It is only God using me. To GOD be the glory!

My Page Link is below:

http://www.mystjudeheroes.org/hopenow

My wish is that everyone will see the God in you and me today, tomorrow, and from now on. If you’re alive you’re blessed. God loves you so much! Spread the love!

Watch Mary Mary’s “God in Me” video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agxi8cei9h8

CHECK OUT: http://sites.google.com/site/theofficialandrewsmith/

Journey of My Run Week 4 : Day 1 - 2

Day 1 – Friday, May 7


I went a total of 1.01 miles today. I walked and ran some laps. Walking or running was extremely difficult for me today for some reason. I burned a total of 62 calories and that’s a very small amount. I walked a total of 2139 steps. Tomorrow’s a better day!

Day 2 – Saturday, May 8

I went on my walking trip earlier this morning. Then, I went back later in the day too. So in a complete total I went 3.40 miles! Woot! I burned a total of 212 calories. I walked and ran 7195 steps. I ran a lap and maybe two. Nevertheless, my feet are very sore at the moment.

I would like to thank my family for supporting me in everything. They have always been there when I needed them the most.

I would also like to thank you anyone who has ever said a prayer for me. Thank you for the support over the years. I haven’t always been who, I needed to me, but I’m working on that.

Thank you family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and especially you for believing in me! In the end, we are all really family. I would like everyone to pray that we will raise a lot of money for St. Jude’s. I believe that the children will be healed! Lives will be changed for you blessing and helping other people. Like the old saying goes, “What comes around, goes around”. If you give and help out a child; I believe God will bless you for it. Any amount helps! Let’s just come into agreement and ask for God’s favor in life and protection!

God Bless!

And even if you don’t want to help me, don’t do it for me. Or maybe you don’t even care for me. But please, do it for the children. I am just the voice and the writer for the voiceless and sick. They need your help and my help!

Watch this video for the survivor stories. You’re helping people like these people shown in the video! I love how the video shows young and old survivors. There is always hope! Every life matters! Never give up!

Portrait of Hope Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx2Jqd0U1l8

My page on St. Jude's :

http://www.mystjudeheroes.org/hopenow

Journey of My Run Week 2 : Day 2-7

Week 2


Day 2 - Saturday, April 24

I worked out in a different way today. I lifted weights using a Bow-Flex. I lifted about 30 pounds, since I haven’t lifted weights in a while. Also I was busy today and I had to go to a family graduation. So I didn’t make time for the running.

Day 3 - Sunday, April 25

I walked for 46536 steps so far. I also went for 2.25 miles! I burned a total of 1430 calories. I ran the first lap and I walked the rest of the four laps.

Day 4 – Monday, April 26, Day 5 – Tuesday, April 27, Day 6 – Wednesday, April 28

I didn’t work out during these days. It was the last two weeks of college. So that’s why the posts were delayed.

Day 7 – Thursday, April 29

I ran one lap around the track. I have gone for a total of 48222 steps so far. I only went for 0.79 mile, which is a little less than a mile- really. I burned a total of 1480 total. I only went one lap in order to make it back for the podcast.

Note: I am sorry for the delay again. College finals the last two weeks made me very busy!

Journey of My Run Week 2 : Day 1

Week 2


Day 1 - Friday, April 23

I got up the courage to tweet to Christian Singers, Mary Mary or also known as Erica and Tina. They retweeted my tweet about helping St. Jude’s about a week ago. Thanks girls for listening and reposting to your followers! Then Friday, I asked Mary Mary, what they would like to tell teens out there. I asked them this, “If you could tell teens; one thing what would it be?” Mary Mary said, “~Listen!!!!!!Slow Down n Seek God!!” I agree with this statement.

Sometimes as teenagers, we don’t really listen as well as we should. Guys, occasionally have a huge problem in this area with communicating our thoughts and feelings. Most tend to avoid it. We all know, guys don’t talk as much as girls. We need to be better communicators and listen to one another. We don’t need to talk all the time. We need to listen more than we talk. I am not saying never say a word, we need to listen to one another. Most of the world is becoming me-minded. We need to say right things and be positive in our daily lives. Just listen to how people talk for a week and you will see.

Most teens use curse words a lot more these days. I know I am one of them. Of course, I am 20 now and still do. I will have to continue to work on this every single day. Even adults use curse words. We get mad at the neighbors, drivers, kids, friends, when we hurt ourselves or anything else when we don’t get our way. We all know what happens next, we say some words and maybe a few not so beautiful words slip out. Then, we do the blame game, well they made me mad! I was caught up in emotions. I didn’t mean it. You don’t know what they said to me. I regret it now. Boy, we got a long list to choose from. I remember one time, when I let one slip out and there was a child around. Way to go, Andrew!

I think sometimes it’s out of what can I get from that person. Most teenagers will not talk to the lonely kid sitting by himself at school. Why are we so afraid, we will lose our current friends? It must be out of fear or maybe it’s out of we don’t care. I mean look at the bulling going around. In the past, the bulling only could happen in real life. Now, we got kids on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, Formspring, and any other social site getting cyber bullied. I am not saying these sites are bad in any way. We just have to use them for good purposes and not bad. You can pretty much invite the bully to come live with you at home. You bully me at school, why not just come live with me too. Guys and girls you can choose to delete them from your friends list. DON’T ADD THEM! BLOCK THE ACCOUNT! You might be scared and be thinking what if they come after me. Tell a professional at your school; if that person doesn’t listen go tell another one. If you know someone is getting bullied stop it and go tell someone. You could be their hero. Sit with the loners! If you already have a group, invite the loners over to be a part of your group. You might be thinking, well they are different. I guess you’re getting a different perspective on whatever you talk about at the table. We have got to start loving each other more. We need love! Maybe you’re an adult and there is a lonely girl or guy at work, talk to them. You’re never too old or too young to reach out and make a difference.

Oh and yes, I didn’t continue on my running journey today. But I will eventually. I ran four days this week! That’s a huge start for me. Remember to take time and love!

Journey of My Run Week 1 : Day 7

Week 1


Day 7 - Thursday, April 22

Today, I did something entertaining! I hung out with one of my cousin’s and her family. We played the Wii, which I always enjoy. Normally, we sing American Idol or play Rock Band. But, today we did something different. First, we played a deer hunting game. She only had one controller that could shoot at the pretend deer’s on the screen. So, one of us got the Wii gun controller and the other got the plain old Wii remote. It was much harder using the Wii remote trying to aim at the deer’s. We also took turns with each controller. It had a pleasurable challenge though, you had to aim and hit the moose’s and bears, before they ate you. No, stop drop and roll. Wait, that thing is for fire. We played the duck shooting game next. It took us a while to figure out how to actually get the pretend Wii gun and the remote to shoot. I got lost in the controls again. After, you shoot about 6 ducks; you have to make your dog go get them by using the dog commands. The dogs didn’t want to listen to, “Come, Here, Sit, and There”. The dogs obviously didn’t have a sense of smell at all. The dogs would be right over the birds and they still couldn’t see them. Then, we played two fishing games. One of the games had a mind of its own. The boat would move, if you hit the A button. Of course, I would always cast the line, then I would hit the A button and bam. The boat would start going on its own and I would hit the shore. Then, the boat wouldn’t back up, without taking out the nunchuk from the back of the Wii cast line controller. Maybe it wasn’t in there right, I have no idea. We couldn’t figure out the problem. But it kept happening. So, we played another Wii fishing game and the fishing game got kind of boring, so we moved on. We then played a surfing game and a skiing game with the Wii balance board. Yes, you know good and well, I couldn’t race around the tracks without hitting the gate or wall. Next, we decided to take a break and we rode her golf cart around the block a few times. We watched the Jo Dee Messina podcast broadcast at her house. Jo Dee Messina shared some good stories of inspiration this week. So if you missed it, go watch it! If you haven’t figured it out yet, I didn’t work out again today. Yes, I know I am falling behind. But I am still celebrating my birthday! Haha Next, after the show, her father decided to teach me how to pay the acoustic guitar. He taught me a few chords C, G, A, E, and a lot more. Okay, I don’t know much about guitar beside how to strum the guitar and how to hold the pick. He taught me that, since he has played for years. Someone needs to practice! Yes, I mean me. He also said, “I have the long fingers for it.” You know what they always say about long fingers. Okay, you got me; I don’t know what they say. Well, another thing is that my fingers started to hurt after about an hour and a half. They are still a little numb. I am thinking learning the guitar and mastering running is my goals for the summer.

What are some of your goals this year?

Do you play any instruments? If so, what kind? How often do you play? How many hours a time?

Maybe your thing is working out. How often do you work out? What kind of activities do you do?

Journey of My Run Week 1 : Day 5

Week 1


Day 5 - Tuesday, April 20

I went on the pathway of fitness in the awesome park. I had to walk/run before the Jo Dee Messina Podcast! I almost didn’t make it. I went only three laps today. I took 41761 steps around the track so far. I went a total of 1.67 miles today. I burned 1280 calories. I am guessing that the pedometer is keeping up with my whole totals for the calories and the steps. I am not really sure; I guess someone needs to actually read the booklet, in the near future. Or we could just wait and see how the numbers keep changing. I am leaning to waiting at least for right now. I hit the reset button every time; at first, I thought it actually cleared it. But maybe it only clears the time and the miles. Anyways, I walked for a total of 16 minutes and 5 seconds. First, I ran the first lap. Second, I walked the second lap like always. Third, I walk the last and final lap. Okay, I know I have to push myself a little bit more. I only have about one more month to do so, but I am going to get to that finish line! I know, with God’s help, I will keep improving in my journey to my destination. I could definitely use your prayers.

When, I got back, Jo Dee Messina started her Tuesday broadcast. She gave me a shout-out for my birthday tomorrow. Thank you, Jo Dee for the shout-out! Also, I would like to thank her for answering my question and asking the chat room what people thought about the show, Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution. She thought one of my questions was, “powerful”. It was the question, “Why eat bad, when we know it is killing us?” You can watch the broadcast below.

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/6326212

Keep tuning in to her podcasts! Keep following my running show!

Journey of My Run Week 1 : Day 3

Week 1


Day 3 - Sunday, April 18
Today was a quite a long or it seemed that way in my run/walk. I ran the first lap on the track. I made it about 1 full lap running, but mom pointed out that it wasn’t actually near the start line. I was trying to be optimism about going a full lap non- stopped. I walked the second lap. I am trying to do a run and a walk at the very beginning. Then, I hope to increase the length and the process of running a full 5K. I ran part of the third lap, and then I stopped yet again. But it is making me stronger to keep pressing on to the finish line. I walked the very last lap of course. I went a total of four laps again today. My side got a little bit sorer today along with my legs. However, yesterday my side didn’t hurt though. As they always say, “No pain no gain”. I went for a total of 1.91 miles in my goal of a 5K. I also burned 1044 calories, which is a great thing. I went a total of 34290 steps and a worked out for a total of 23 minutes and 19 seconds. Thank you for your support and your love! :) I also want to thank you for all the prayers and donations to St. Jude’s. Now to watch the 45th ACM Awards, you know I couldn’t miss it.

What performances were you excited to see?

What did you think of the show?

Who were you rooting for?

Tell me your thoughts! I want to hear from you. Make sure you share my webpage and tell your friends what I am doing. Tell them to join me in helping children going through cancer.