by Simon Akl (18)
Growing up, I have always had fun in participating in many sportive and physical activities. However, for the past year, due to a recent diagnosis of a herniated disk, I have been limited in the amount of sports that I have been able to do, as well as many related everyday movements. It has been very tough at times, with constant reminders throughout the days of my physical limitations, what it means to have a normal life. Movements which I used to take for granted are now things which I look forward to doing again, under strenuous physical therapy and other natural treatments.
It is so easy to just feel bad and depressed about not being able to do the things that I enjoyed so much. It is much more difficult to remain positive and have faith in God to work with me, even during times when there seems to be no progress. I know that God’s ways are not my ways and that, in fact, His ways are higher than my ways, just as the heavens are higher than the earth. In the end it is much more rewarding to know that through tests and times of troubles, I am able to hold fast to my faith and allow God to work with me and teach me whatever lessons I need to learn in my life.
Instead of feeling down, helpless and depressed, it is important for me to look for the positive points which will not only allow me to feel better psychologically, but also eventually physically. Even though I have not been able to do many sports this year, I believe that this situation is still a hidden blessing-in-disguise. My understanding and learning about my current situation have been greatly increased, so that I became fascinated by the treatment related to my herniated disk, which helped me decide what kind of career I want to study, and what I want to do for the rest of my life.
There are days when I wish I did not have to go through this, but in the end it is, in my opinion, God’s way of teaching me patience and perseverance, which allows me to develop godly character. God will never give me more than what I can bear. It is vital for me to remember that whenever I am burdened with any trial, I have always to look to Him for guidance and hope. I know that when I endure through the obstacles of my temporary physical life, while keeping my faith and looking to God for help, I am becoming ready to be baptized, so that I can ultimately reach my potential of inheriting eternal life in God’s kingdom. In light of this, my present trials become all the more fruitful, gratifying and worthwhile.
