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
Posted by
Andrew Smith
comments (0)
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.
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
Posted by
Andrew Smith
comments (0)
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
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
Learning to Heal
Posted by
Andrew Smith
comments (0)
Week 7
Day 1 – Friday, May 28
Today, I took the day off on my running a 5K.
Day 2 – Saturday, May 29
God didn’t create us to be depressed in this lifetime. He wanted us to enjoy our life every single day. I have been putting off sitting down and writing this. Today, I got really depressed. Sometimes I feel like I don’t even know how to smile and laugh a little. I tend to be serious minded. I am not trying to make you get depressed too. I write to try and help others and myself. I know what’s it’s to carry all of your baggage from your past. I carried anger and my hurts around daily. I have always had the Simon’s in my life. I can even be the Simon. Everyone tries to tell me who I should be. I need to agree with what they are saying. That’s what they are telling me. But that is what Satan wants me to believe. They are the judges and they rule my life or so it seemed that way. I have been called names from a too z and I let them define me. I received the comments and opinions and I let them run my life. Since they seem to know so much right? They define and rule me? Wrong they don’t.
I got knocked down by the wrongs and hurts. But I had to pick myself back up with God’s help. You can’t let life knock you down. As Dolly Parton has said, “We have to get over what is bothering us and get back to living”. She said that statement for her introduction to “Better Get To Livin’” on her “Live From London” album.
Here is the official video for “Better Get To Livin’”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKeulwZ3sGE
I have been called fat in some terms and that comment scared me because I let it. I have been called gay and picked on and rejected from time to time. I let someone tell me, I am fat and who I need to be. I didn’t want to relive the pain. I didn’t want to hear that comment. I was insecure. I didn’t know how to love me for me. Not be in love with me. But just like me.
So this weekend, I got knocked down and stayed in bed. I withdrew yet again from the world. I thought if I didn’t open up and get to know people they couldn’t hurt me. But that was just a lie from Satan. I wanted to be accepted for who I am. There are so many people that need and want to be accepted. I looked the last time, I went to a store and most of the store was teenagers. Not one of them looked happy. When are we going to love people for who they are? So what if they’re not the most popular people! Fame and looks won’t last forever. I had to let down my walls and live a little. You don’t have to be so serious all the time. Yes, we do need to take some things in life seriously but not everything. You can laugh and smile! I had to heal, which is painful. But if you don’t heal and let God heal you. You will continue to be broken. God can take your broken pieces and use them to help others. You can get back to living your life! I know what it’s like to be knocked down and broken. Believe me. So why did I write about this? I needed to and let it all out. Life is way too short to not heal and love again. I know it’s hard when it’s someone who is in your family, someone you thought was your friend, or maybe even your parents. But I had to be happy again. I have let it hurt me for far too long. I had to change my thinking and lighted up and have some fun.
You can’t stay in bed all the time and hide from the world. You have to out there and live. Even a Christian Artist, Mandisa got told who to be and hid in her own bed for a little while. She let Simon’s comments bother her. America was watching her to see how she would react to Simon’s comments. She chose to forgive him on live television. I don’t know if I would have responded the same way.
Listening to music is something I enjoy. So, I watched Good Morning America because one of my favorite bands was on there today. Sugarland performed a few songs in Times Square. Jennifer Nettles and Kristen Bush know how to live life to the fullest and smile and perform.
“Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.” Psalm 42:5 (The Message)
“Fear not, for you shall not be ashamed; neither be confounded and depressed, for you shall not be put to shame. For you shall forget the shame of your youth, and you shall not [seriously] remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore.” Isaiah 54:4 (Amplified Bible)
I am going to start enjoying my everyday life. Life is way too short to hang on to this depression and self-pity. I am going to be happy and be me. Not someone else. I will let God take control and help me change and be who he wants me to be. A song that helped me along the way was one by Faith Hill. It’s called, “This is Me”.
Some of the lyrics are: “Yeah I have my addictions and keep my share of secrets and things you'll never see I get selfish and defensive And pay too much attention to my insecurities Oh I'm just like everybody else I try to love Jesus and myself I don't know what you believe or what you think of what you see but this is a part of me what I do and who I am all my impurities Are right here on my sleeve This is me”
Listen to the song below:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=29981356
I went a total of 1.47 miles today. I burned a total of 106 calories. I took 3106 steps today.
Tomorrow’s post will be on forgiveness.
Day 1 – Friday, May 28
Today, I took the day off on my running a 5K.
Day 2 – Saturday, May 29
God didn’t create us to be depressed in this lifetime. He wanted us to enjoy our life every single day. I have been putting off sitting down and writing this. Today, I got really depressed. Sometimes I feel like I don’t even know how to smile and laugh a little. I tend to be serious minded. I am not trying to make you get depressed too. I write to try and help others and myself. I know what’s it’s to carry all of your baggage from your past. I carried anger and my hurts around daily. I have always had the Simon’s in my life. I can even be the Simon. Everyone tries to tell me who I should be. I need to agree with what they are saying. That’s what they are telling me. But that is what Satan wants me to believe. They are the judges and they rule my life or so it seemed that way. I have been called names from a too z and I let them define me. I received the comments and opinions and I let them run my life. Since they seem to know so much right? They define and rule me? Wrong they don’t.
I got knocked down by the wrongs and hurts. But I had to pick myself back up with God’s help. You can’t let life knock you down. As Dolly Parton has said, “We have to get over what is bothering us and get back to living”. She said that statement for her introduction to “Better Get To Livin’” on her “Live From London” album.
Here is the official video for “Better Get To Livin’”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKeulwZ3sGE
I have been called fat in some terms and that comment scared me because I let it. I have been called gay and picked on and rejected from time to time. I let someone tell me, I am fat and who I need to be. I didn’t want to relive the pain. I didn’t want to hear that comment. I was insecure. I didn’t know how to love me for me. Not be in love with me. But just like me.
So this weekend, I got knocked down and stayed in bed. I withdrew yet again from the world. I thought if I didn’t open up and get to know people they couldn’t hurt me. But that was just a lie from Satan. I wanted to be accepted for who I am. There are so many people that need and want to be accepted. I looked the last time, I went to a store and most of the store was teenagers. Not one of them looked happy. When are we going to love people for who they are? So what if they’re not the most popular people! Fame and looks won’t last forever. I had to let down my walls and live a little. You don’t have to be so serious all the time. Yes, we do need to take some things in life seriously but not everything. You can laugh and smile! I had to heal, which is painful. But if you don’t heal and let God heal you. You will continue to be broken. God can take your broken pieces and use them to help others. You can get back to living your life! I know what it’s like to be knocked down and broken. Believe me. So why did I write about this? I needed to and let it all out. Life is way too short to not heal and love again. I know it’s hard when it’s someone who is in your family, someone you thought was your friend, or maybe even your parents. But I had to be happy again. I have let it hurt me for far too long. I had to change my thinking and lighted up and have some fun.
You can’t stay in bed all the time and hide from the world. You have to out there and live. Even a Christian Artist, Mandisa got told who to be and hid in her own bed for a little while. She let Simon’s comments bother her. America was watching her to see how she would react to Simon’s comments. She chose to forgive him on live television. I don’t know if I would have responded the same way.
Listening to music is something I enjoy. So, I watched Good Morning America because one of my favorite bands was on there today. Sugarland performed a few songs in Times Square. Jennifer Nettles and Kristen Bush know how to live life to the fullest and smile and perform.
“Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.” Psalm 42:5 (The Message)
“Fear not, for you shall not be ashamed; neither be confounded and depressed, for you shall not be put to shame. For you shall forget the shame of your youth, and you shall not [seriously] remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore.” Isaiah 54:4 (Amplified Bible)
I am going to start enjoying my everyday life. Life is way too short to hang on to this depression and self-pity. I am going to be happy and be me. Not someone else. I will let God take control and help me change and be who he wants me to be. A song that helped me along the way was one by Faith Hill. It’s called, “This is Me”.
Some of the lyrics are: “Yeah I have my addictions and keep my share of secrets and things you'll never see I get selfish and defensive And pay too much attention to my insecurities Oh I'm just like everybody else I try to love Jesus and myself I don't know what you believe or what you think of what you see but this is a part of me what I do and who I am all my impurities Are right here on my sleeve This is me”
Listen to the song below:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=29981356
I went a total of 1.47 miles today. I burned a total of 106 calories. I took 3106 steps today.
Tomorrow’s post will be on forgiveness.
Stop Bullying! Speaking Up! My Survivor Story
Posted by
Andrew Smith
comments (0)
I submitted my story on bullying to The Bully Suicide Project. They have accepted it and posted it on their Facebook page. So check it out!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4481396&id=221347206120
Andrew Smith, 20, College Student
1. Tell Me About Yourself (What are you hobbies, beliefs, likes, etc... )
My name is Andrew Smith. I am 20 years old. My favorite hobbies are reading, riding four-wheelers, listening to music, writing, playing guitar, watching TV, hanging out with my family and friends, and just being myself. I am a Christian who believes in God. My faith has helped me through my life. I also like to play video games with my friends. I love to sing karaoke on the Wii console.
I am attending college and loving every minute of it. I hope to become a writer and maybe a Bible teacher one day. I hope my story can impact kids, who are being bullied. I love listening to Joyce Meyer every single day.
2. Tell Me About Your Personality
My personality is I am quiet and straight to the point. I have been born and raised country. I talk when I have something to say. I like to laugh and have some fun.
3. Tell Me About the First Time you remember being bullied (where, how you felt, the names, you were called, how you dealt with it)
I remember being bullied in Elementary School. I was a very quiet and shy kid in school. I wouldn’t talk to my teachers at all. They would try to convince me to open up and talk. But I wouldn’t. The teachers had no idea that I was being bullied by a girl. This girl would pick on me daily like clockwork. She was relentless in her pursuit in controlling me. She would take my things like my pens, pencils, and anything she could get her hands on in class. I remember one day, two girls started picking on me during recess. It started when the main girl got another girl to join in kicking me in the shin. They both pushed and kicked me. I was on a hill and both of the girls continually kicked me over and over again. The teachers didn’t even see them kicking me. I don’t know if the hill was too high and the teachers didn’t see it or what happened. I wouldn’t talk to them. My parents knew about most of the bullying, but since I wouldn’t open up my mouth in school. The teachers couldn’t do anything, since they didn’t see anything happening. I was so afraid to speak out of fear of being harmed.
Another way is I had a high girly voice during Elementary, Middle, and even some High School. My voice didn’t change until the second year of high school. I was called names like gay and fag. I am straight. One guy posted and told me online that it was because of the way I talked and acted.
4. Names you have been called
Gay, Fat, Fag, Bi, Handwriting messy, Walk Funny, Weird, Never talk, Random
5. Tell Me About how bullying has effected you
Bullying and name calling made me not to be able to trust other people. I was afraid to stand up to them and tell someone. Why get close to them, if they are only going to tell me how to be. People wanted me to be a certain way all the time. It was never enough for them to approve of me. I believed that lie and their lies. It was hard for me to make friends at school. It made me want to be “safe”. It was a longing to be liked by my peers. I would also try to be someone I wasn’t to be accepted.
6. Have you thought about suicide? If so, what did you do about it.
I have thought about suicide. I thought I was worth nothing. I didn’t know what love was. I had a false sense of love in me. I didn’t like myself for a lot of years. I had a deep shame base in me. I didn’t try to ever kill myself, but I have thought it.
7. What are ways you have dealt with suicidal thoughts?
I had to learn to heal from my wounds. My pain has become my message. God always loves me and always approves of me no matter what I do. I can’t change his love for me. I may not always perform perfectly, but he always forgives me.
8. What makes you a survivor?
I am a survivor who was picked on throughout his life. I was always in fear and afraid to speak up, and this is a huge honor and accomplishment that I am able to share my story with you. I didn’t let their comments and abuse control and define me. I didn’t let them change who I am. I had to not let them tear me down anymore. My life was worth living freely. I have a right to stand up and open my mouth. I don’t have to live in fear or being rejected or abused.
9. What is your message of hope to the person just like yourself?
I want to tell kids, teens, and adults to love who they are. Don’t let people’s comments and approvable define and change who you were meant to be. God made you to be special the way you’re meant to be. It doesn’t matter if people say hurtful things about you. They don’t make it the truth about you. You are; who you are. Don’t change because someone thinks you’re too big or too small. If you can’t play sports like they can. If they call you gay because you’re voice is different and high and you’re a guy. Maybe you’re a girl and they make fun of you because of your weight. Their comments don’t make you; who you are. Be the way; you want to be! Being yourself is good enough; don’t let anyone tell you different. Don’t you dare believe their lies, not for a second, or a day, or even a minute! If you are being kicked or picked on stand up and tell someone! If that person doesn’t listen, hold your head up high and tell someone who will listen. Parents, school professions, and bullying hotline numbers are a great start. Just stand up for yourself and tell someone please.
10. The quote that you live by today because of your experience is....
“Difficult situations, ones that are hard to bear, are the ones that give you strength to soar, so do not run away from them. “ Joyce Meyer
“I don't wanna spend the rest of my life And wonder why the world passed me by While I wasn't lookin' or laughing Gonna cut loose from all these chains Turn 'em into a fist full of reigns And ride out cause now there's no doubt Everyday I'm alive you can bet that I’m gonna shine.” Jo Dee Messina - Shine
Here is a CBS Video showing The Bully Suicide Project :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De89lMG7pOM
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4481396&id=221347206120
Andrew Smith, 20, College Student
1. Tell Me About Yourself (What are you hobbies, beliefs, likes, etc... )
My name is Andrew Smith. I am 20 years old. My favorite hobbies are reading, riding four-wheelers, listening to music, writing, playing guitar, watching TV, hanging out with my family and friends, and just being myself. I am a Christian who believes in God. My faith has helped me through my life. I also like to play video games with my friends. I love to sing karaoke on the Wii console.
I am attending college and loving every minute of it. I hope to become a writer and maybe a Bible teacher one day. I hope my story can impact kids, who are being bullied. I love listening to Joyce Meyer every single day.
2. Tell Me About Your Personality
My personality is I am quiet and straight to the point. I have been born and raised country. I talk when I have something to say. I like to laugh and have some fun.
3. Tell Me About the First Time you remember being bullied (where, how you felt, the names, you were called, how you dealt with it)
I remember being bullied in Elementary School. I was a very quiet and shy kid in school. I wouldn’t talk to my teachers at all. They would try to convince me to open up and talk. But I wouldn’t. The teachers had no idea that I was being bullied by a girl. This girl would pick on me daily like clockwork. She was relentless in her pursuit in controlling me. She would take my things like my pens, pencils, and anything she could get her hands on in class. I remember one day, two girls started picking on me during recess. It started when the main girl got another girl to join in kicking me in the shin. They both pushed and kicked me. I was on a hill and both of the girls continually kicked me over and over again. The teachers didn’t even see them kicking me. I don’t know if the hill was too high and the teachers didn’t see it or what happened. I wouldn’t talk to them. My parents knew about most of the bullying, but since I wouldn’t open up my mouth in school. The teachers couldn’t do anything, since they didn’t see anything happening. I was so afraid to speak out of fear of being harmed.
Another way is I had a high girly voice during Elementary, Middle, and even some High School. My voice didn’t change until the second year of high school. I was called names like gay and fag. I am straight. One guy posted and told me online that it was because of the way I talked and acted.
4. Names you have been called
Gay, Fat, Fag, Bi, Handwriting messy, Walk Funny, Weird, Never talk, Random
5. Tell Me About how bullying has effected you
Bullying and name calling made me not to be able to trust other people. I was afraid to stand up to them and tell someone. Why get close to them, if they are only going to tell me how to be. People wanted me to be a certain way all the time. It was never enough for them to approve of me. I believed that lie and their lies. It was hard for me to make friends at school. It made me want to be “safe”. It was a longing to be liked by my peers. I would also try to be someone I wasn’t to be accepted.
6. Have you thought about suicide? If so, what did you do about it.
I have thought about suicide. I thought I was worth nothing. I didn’t know what love was. I had a false sense of love in me. I didn’t like myself for a lot of years. I had a deep shame base in me. I didn’t try to ever kill myself, but I have thought it.
7. What are ways you have dealt with suicidal thoughts?
I had to learn to heal from my wounds. My pain has become my message. God always loves me and always approves of me no matter what I do. I can’t change his love for me. I may not always perform perfectly, but he always forgives me.
8. What makes you a survivor?
I am a survivor who was picked on throughout his life. I was always in fear and afraid to speak up, and this is a huge honor and accomplishment that I am able to share my story with you. I didn’t let their comments and abuse control and define me. I didn’t let them change who I am. I had to not let them tear me down anymore. My life was worth living freely. I have a right to stand up and open my mouth. I don’t have to live in fear or being rejected or abused.
9. What is your message of hope to the person just like yourself?
I want to tell kids, teens, and adults to love who they are. Don’t let people’s comments and approvable define and change who you were meant to be. God made you to be special the way you’re meant to be. It doesn’t matter if people say hurtful things about you. They don’t make it the truth about you. You are; who you are. Don’t change because someone thinks you’re too big or too small. If you can’t play sports like they can. If they call you gay because you’re voice is different and high and you’re a guy. Maybe you’re a girl and they make fun of you because of your weight. Their comments don’t make you; who you are. Be the way; you want to be! Being yourself is good enough; don’t let anyone tell you different. Don’t you dare believe their lies, not for a second, or a day, or even a minute! If you are being kicked or picked on stand up and tell someone! If that person doesn’t listen, hold your head up high and tell someone who will listen. Parents, school professions, and bullying hotline numbers are a great start. Just stand up for yourself and tell someone please.
10. The quote that you live by today because of your experience is....
“Difficult situations, ones that are hard to bear, are the ones that give you strength to soar, so do not run away from them. “ Joyce Meyer
“I don't wanna spend the rest of my life And wonder why the world passed me by While I wasn't lookin' or laughing Gonna cut loose from all these chains Turn 'em into a fist full of reigns And ride out cause now there's no doubt Everyday I'm alive you can bet that I’m gonna shine.” Jo Dee Messina - Shine
Here is a CBS Video showing The Bully Suicide Project :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De89lMG7pOM
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