Success or Failure

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                                                    Success or Failure
 
Have you ever thought about the thin line between success and failure?  Why do some people accomplish great things, overcome obstacles and achieve success, while others stay mired in mediocrity.

Many of us settle for just getting by instead of pressing on toward greatness.  When obstacles arise we give up and stop short.  When Satan throws a road block in our way, we throw in the towel and give up on our dreams.  The only difference sometimes is determination.
 
Several months ago, Runner’s World magazine, carried the inspiring story of Rudy Garcia-Tolson.  Rudy was born with pterygium (ter-i-gium) syndrome, a muscular disease that prevented his legs from fully extending.  Before the age of 5 Rudy endured 15 unsuccessful surgeries to repair his legs.
 
At that point the doctor’s offered him two options for mobility ... a wheelchair for the rest of his life or artificial limbs.  The second option would require above-the-knee double amputation.  When they explained the options to him, young Rudy said, “Cut ‘em off, I want to go outside and play.”
 
After the surgery he was fitted with prostheses and began the long arduous process of rehabilitation and learning how to use them.  When he was 12, Rudy entered his first race and it took him 17 minutes to complete a mile.  The other kids call him Robocop or No-legs boy, but Rudy wouldn’t give up.  He kept running and eventually his times began to drop.  His personal best for the mile is now under six minutes .. a time I sincerely doubt few of us could achieve.
 
Two years ago Rudy competed in an Olympic distance triathlon at the California Paralympics and won the gold medal.  After graduating from high school, Rudy trained for and completed the Hawaii Ironman.  He was the first double above-the knee amputee to attempt that grueling event that includes a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a full 26.2 mile marathon run.
 
In a recent interview when a reporter asked him Why?  Rudy responded. “I’m just doing what I love to do swimming, biking, running – whether I have legs or not.”  In fact, he says, “if I had legs I might not be as active.  This gives me more motivation.”
 
Rudy Garcia-Tolson simply refuses to think of himself as handicapped.  He could have remained an invalid.  He could have spent his life sitting in a wheelchair, but he refuses to accept his limitations.  He refuses to give up.  You know what, I’m convinced God doesn’t want us to give up either.  He doesn’t want us to settle for average or just getting by.  He doesn’t want us to quit because Satan throws an obstacle or two in our way.  With Christ’s help all things are possible.  As Paul reminds us we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us” (Philippians 4:13)
 
As we begin this New Year, dream big.  Don’t let anyone or anything keep you from accomplishing all that God intends for you.  Never give up.
 
Have a great week!
Pastor Barry
 
If you would like to comment or if you have questions for Pastor Barry you may direct those to bglawson75@gmail.com.   We would love to hear from you.