Week 241
Positive post Sunday, October 3, 2021- Week 241.
Have you ever been blessed to receive a second chance on life? I have, in fact, I’ve had a 3rd chance as well. Although difficult and emotional to write about, I do so in hopes that the learnings from my experiences may have a positive impact on others, bring some closer to God and possibly save lives.
My second chance on life was over 14 years ago. On November 27, 2006, I survived open heart surgery due an unexpected and unexplained illness. I am grateful to my family, friends, Dr. Christopher Gibson and the medical staff at Saint Bernardine Medical Center for all the prayers, support and care, but most of all, I’m grateful to the Lord. It’s my belief that he kept me here on earth because I was still work in progress. He graciously gave me a second chance to earn eternal life through my continued service to him here on earth. I am also grateful beyond words that, with his grace, I’ve been able to experience an abundance of love over the past 15 years. The list of what I would have missed is extensive and quite frankly overwhelming to think about. Seeing our family grow from 2 to 11 grandchildren, with another one on the way, reminds me of how blessed I am. I realize that we will all die someday, but I can’t imagine not being a part of all their lives.
Yesterday was the one-year anniversary of my 3rd chance on life. On October 2nd, 2020, the good Lord sent me another message, reminding me of how fragile life can be, and once again extending my lease on life. I survived a horrific accident when I was hit from behind by a car while riding my bike. I literally had injuries from head to toe, and it’s only by the grace of God that I survived to write this PPS. I am once again grateful to my family and friends, and this time the medical staff at Loma Linda University Medical Center. By God’s will, and with their prayers, support, encouragement and care, I continue to recover and once again survive to continue to live my life serving the Lord.
Those who have not experienced life-threatening illnesses or injuries may not understand, but I had so many people praying for me that I could literally FEEL the power of prayers while I was fighting for my life and throughout my recovery!
Here are a few nuggets I have learned from my 2 life-threatening experiences:
- Don’t take life for granted, we can be returned to our Father at any time
- Always be prepared with your house in order (we prepare for emergencies, why not eternal life?)
- When we die, we don’t take our belonging, just love, so live a life of love serving the Lord and others
- Appreciate and focus on the important things in your life, Faith Family and Fitness for me
- Staying in good physical and mental health can be the difference between life and death
- It takes a village to help you recover from life-threatening injuries or illnesses, thank your village
- The power of prayer is amazing and the Lord listens (on his timeline not ours), I am living proof
- Wearing your protective gear can save your life, wearing my helmet saved mine
- Drive safely and ride safely for your loved ones, they need you and depend on you
Those of us who have experienced a life-threatening injury or illness know that the experience is a humbling reminder to focus on the important things and people in our lives. Near death experiences are extremely emotional yet empowering for those with Faith as they bring you, and those around you, closer to God.
Thank you for the 2nd and 3rd chance on life, Lord! I’m grateful for the opportunities you have given me to continue to serve you here on earth. I’m equally grateful for the extended time with my family and friends. You clearly have a plan for me. I will continue to listen with an open mind and heart, strive to serve you and be prepared to be with you once again.
Have you ever experienced a life-threatening accident, injury or illness? Do you live your life differently and feel closer to God now?
If love is all we take with us when we die, how are you loving others during your finite time here on earth?
Do you always wear your helmet when you ride your bike? With God’s grace, my helmet saved my life!