by Lyndia Grant
Special to the NNPA from The Washington Informer
Sometimes the problems of life, or let’s call them hits, just keep coming; this column reminds us how to make it against all odds!
We are living in very challenging times today. Pressured in the workplace, stressed out at home, people are trying to make sense of their lives.
2 Corinthians 4:13-18 promises, “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day; for our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” When we release our struggle to a Higher Power, we not only survive, we plant roots that will keep us strong forever.
While there’s tension on one hand there’s introspection and exploration on the other. How do you keep on going when life knocks you down? It’s one thing to be positive when things are going well. But it is something altogether different when you’re blindsided, when the following happens:
When someone you love is taken away either by death or some other reason;
When a debilitating illness strikes you or a family member; and all you can do is depend on God.
When your “lifetime” job is suddenly downsized, and after 15 or 20 years of quality service you receive a pink slip; you feel devastated.
When you go through the emotional torment of a divorce and especially when children are involved.
When grown children refuse to grow up, and they continue to depend on you for shelter, for food, clothing, and they even need money from you for their personal needs.
When your teenagers decide they are adults, and they no longer listen to what you have to say, but they live under your roof.
When the doctor gives you a diagnosis that sounds like the end of life as you know it; you are shattered.
Sharon Lechter wrote a new book entitled, “Think and Grow Rich for Women,” but this prayer she included in her chapter on “Faith” will work for anyone – men, women or children. It reads:
“As I begin this journey, I know I will feel excitement and energy as well as fear and frustration. I trust that your Divine love is encouraging and forgiving. I believe that true success starts with a richness of spirit. Please enter my heart and help my faith to grow stronger every day. When it is as small as a mustard seed, show me how this tiny treasure can create a forest. When my faith is as huge as a mighty oak tree, help me have the humility to see every small, helpless creature in its shadow and offer nourishment, shelter, and shade. Growing successful is my earthly goal, but growing in faith will remain my spiritual mission.”
One of my lowest points took place a couple of years ago; I was sick with diabetes, weak; work wasn’t steady and I couldn’t make ends meet; I had to use a food stamp card for six months, a first for me at age 60; I got help from my sons regularly however, food stamps had always been considered an embarrassment in my family!
During my tough times, I kept my faith strong, and read my Bible daily, woke up early each day and prayed and meditated, picturing my life as a working woman again and in good health. I turned my television off, and instead listened to Les Brown, Zig Ziglar, Wayne Dyer, Joyce Meyer, Bishop T.D. Jakes, and Louise Hay. I had to strengthen myself from within. It worked, I’m no longer a diabetic; and my finances have greatly improved. You can make it against all odds as well.
Lyndia Grant is a radio talk show host on 1340, WYCB AM, Fridays at 6 p.m.; visit her website at www.lyndiagrant.com; call her at 202 518 3192; send emails to lyndiagrant@lyndiagrant.com.