But me! Sometimes I feel like I am the only person in the world without children. After all, I am 30 now, so shouldn’t I have at least one child by now? I feel like I am supposed to, but it really wouldn’t be practical for me right now. There are a lot of reasons why it wouldn’t work. Nonetheless, I still feel like the only person my age without a child.

In social settings, all conversations seem to lead to children. My child did this or that, etc. I guess if I had children I would want to talk about them too, but during those conversations I just twiddle my thumbs because I have nothing to contribute, and cannot relate in the least.

Sometimes I think people have children because that’s what they are “supposed to do.” It’s what our society expects. You know…get married, have 2.5 kids. Though, a lot of people have children by mistake, and that may be another reason everyone my age has at least one child.

I’ll be honest, a part of me does want children, but that small part outweighs a much larger part. How would a child change my life? I have no idea, but I know from what people tell me that it would be significant. Plus, I could never picture myself driving a mini van…just saying. So, I guess when it comes to the topic of children, I will just feel left out for now, and live vicariously through the lives of my friends, and families children.

It’s amazing to me how politics always seems to be the one thing that divides people. This is especially true around election time.  That’s why this topic should be avoided at work, and other places where you don’t want to make enemies. Granted, I’m not a Republican, and I’m not a Democrat.  I feel that those titles are too restricting. There is no political party that I identify with 100%. Really, there’s no label I identify with 100%. However, a lot of people do have that certain political party that they identify with completely.  I had a good “friend” that I lost primarily because of our political differences.  She was so one way, and didn’t care to take into consideration any other perspective. I hope that I will always consider other perspectives, and be open to ideas that are different from my own. You really have to come at life with an open mind, and see the whole picture in situations. If you don’t, you will alienate a lot of people in your life. While you may not always agree with someone, it’s best to listen, and consider other ideas before it’s too late or you’ve a friendship lost.

Today, Nick Vujicic spoke at my church.  If you’re not familiar with Nick, here’s a little background information on him.  Nick was born in Brisbane, Australia without any arms or legs, but that hasn’t stopped him from living a fulfilling life.  Nick has a very positive attitude, inspired by a life of servitude to God.  Nick graduated college with a double major in accounting, and financial planning.  Nick can write, swim, surf, and travels the world inspiring others. Nick’s life is proof that a disability doesn’t have to hold you back in life. He’s accomplished so much, despite his disability.

During the sermon, Nick said he based his life on Jeremiah 29 from the Bible which talks about God’s plans for our life, “plans to prosper us, and give us hope, and a future.”  ”Nothing you see with your eyes can satisfy your soul like Jesus can,” Vujicic said during the sermon.

If Nick still has hope, then what’s holding you back?  Why not let God use your disability, whatever it may be to encourage others?

For more information on Nick, visit http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/

I’ve noticed throughout my life, and personal experiences that people truly only want to be around you when you are happy, and positive.  People tire of you quickly if you’re negative or down, even if it’s not for a very long period of time.  I’ve noticed that when I’m happy, people are drawn to me.  They want to spend time with me, but if I’m feeling down on myself or complaining, then everyone just sort of scatters.  I’ve also learned that no matter how hard I try, it’s just impossible to always be happy.  For instance, when a family member or friend dies, then naturally one has to grieve, but most people will only tolerate grief for a very brief time.  The same applies to when you’re caring for a sick loved one, having financial problems, etc.  People only have tolerance to endure your problems for so long, then they’re done.   I, myself have been guilty of not being compassionate enough to people when they are struggling.  So, perhaps this is a lesson to myself.  I should be more compassionate, and then perhaps I would receive more compassion in return.  The people who have the most friends in life, and seem to have the most influence on others are the sunny people.  Sunshine naturally draws people.  What good does it really do to be down, anyway?  Can’t some good be found in every situation in life?  Our perception determines our destiny.   There are times when you need to just vent though, and be authentic with how you are truly feeling.  Those  times should be shared amongst those tried, and true friends.  The people who really love you will tolerate you in all the seasons of life.  Otherwise, just be sunny.