It's Courage that Counts!

Bob Wieland, who lost both legs while serving in Viet Nam, believe that he could make a difference in his world. With courage that amazed America, he began a 3000 mile "walk" across the nation -- on his hands!

The trip from California to Washington D. C. took 4,999,016 steps and lasted three and a half years. In the process, he raised $305,000 to feed the hungry.

The mission was difficult, but as he struggled along the way, he reminded himself of his favorite Bible verse: "With God, all things are possible." (Luke 1:37)

Wieland's walk proved to the rest of us that a person with courage and determination can do just about anything.

I believe that everyone has a mission in life. I have one. You do too! Your mission is soemthing that only you can fulfill, and if you depart from it, your life will be incomplete.

Fulfilling a mission takes courage. It requires us to move beyond the ordinary. It compels us to launch out and attempt thiings which may be scorned by others. It demands that we try our wings and fly with the eagles, when we would much rather stay in the chicken coop.

Extraordinary feats are accomplished when God plants a vision in the minds of ordinary people -- and they respond with courage.

I cannot define your particular mission. Mine is to be an encourager. Perhaps you are to be a person who fights injustice. Maybe you are chosen to inspire others with your artistry. Possibly, you possess the great gift of leadership.

Whatever your taks may be, you need to embrace it, and move ahead with courageous enthusiasm! Find your mission and fulfill with with all your might.

The poet, Edgar A. Guest, put it this way:

Courage isn't a brilliant dash,
A daring deed in a moment's flash;
It isn't an instantateous thing
Born of despair with a sudden spring,
But it's something deep within the soul of man
That is working always to serve some plan.

Arise, go forth, and conquer!