Valuable Lessons

As you may know, I love talking about my fellow volunteer-turned-employee, Celeste. It’s probably because of her joyful spirit — every time I see this young lady, she’s smiling. A few weeks back, Celeste shared the secret behind her happy spirit. She lives by five principles her mother taught her (they’ve been especially helpful as she deals with cerebral palsy). Each principle is simple, yet profound, and I just had to pass them along to you. Here’s what Celeste told me:

“First, my mom taught me that we all have a disability; mine just happens to be one you can see. Second, she taught me that it was OK to do things differently. Third, I was taught not to compare; we all have different talents and struggles. Next, my mom told me to encourage others as much as I encourage myself, and to be willing to give and receive help. My mother’s greatest lesson, however, always will be: No matter how much CP limits me, it’s my attitude that truly determines the severity of my disability.”

Celeste’s mother was a wise woman! True, having the right perspective can be a challenge, help is only a prayer away. Ephesians 4:23-24 says, “Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” So, whether you have a disability others can see, or yours is less obvious, don’t forget that attitude is everything. Take it from Celeste who is living out her mother’s advice… and it hasn’t failed her yet.