Weathering Life’s Storms

By Andrea Sharp –

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,
When the road you are trudging seems all uphill;
When the funds are low, and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh;
When care is pressing you down a bit –
Rest if you must, but don’t you quit…

So stick to the fight when you are hardest hit,
It is when things seem worst you must not quit.  Author Unknown

Sometimes life is filled with moments that take our breath away. Times of exhilarating joy or heartbreaking sorrow accompany any life that has seen multiple seasons. Sometimes life’s storms come in the form of health, career or family upheaval. Other times they come in the actual occurrence of weather related storms. Both have the opportunity to bring chaos, grief, strain or trauma. But both also have the unique ability to generate love, friendships, giving and selflessness not otherwise generally experienced.

My three sons and I were driving through town recently and we came upon a young man who looked disheveled and worn. He was holding a sign that read ‘I need a miracle.’ My youngest son Landon immediately took notice. “Mom, he says he needs a miracle. What are we going to do?” This comes from the same tender heart that prays every night for the homeless ‘to get a home, a tent or anything Lord.’ I made a u-turn, pulled into McDonalds and ordered the biggest meal and drink I could find. We crossed the street and stopped right in front of the man with the sign. My son Jaden rolled down the window and handed the McDonalds bag and drink to the man and I said “God loves you.” He meekly said, “thank you and God bless” and we drove away.

Inevitably we’ll all find ourselves in need at some point or another. Super Sandy produced pandemonium in the east unlike the shores of the Atlantichas ever seen. Panic and uncertainty ensued, but so did stories of miracles with neighbors and communities reaching out and helping strangers with shelter and provisions. In the midst of such heartache came the triumph of the human spirit, one simple act at a time.

We need each other like we need air to breath. We are not islands. God never intended for us to do life alone. No matter how self reliant we are, every heart needs faith, family and friends to do life best.

This Christmas season we have the unique opportunity to share the very best of ourselves. Lending a helping hand to someone in need, visiting a shut in neighbor, baking cookies for your child’s teacher, or writing a thank you note to your boss for the job you have are all uncomplicated acts that are sure to convey kindness. Though simple in effort, each of these brings such gladness to the recipients and to the giver. It only takes a moment to breathe life into someone and the ripple effects could have everlasting results.

If you’re weathering your own storm today, remember to reach out to others for assistance and comfort. It’s not the time to be silent. Realness can create a foundation for vibrant relationships. Together we can positively influence hearts and lives one act at time.

Andrea Sharp is an inspirational speaker, author, teacher, and life/health coach who truly connects with the hearts of everyone she touches through her infectious smile and genuine personality. Andrea has been married for twenty-three years to her college sweetheart, Matt. They have been blessed with three sons, Clay, Jaden and Landon. Andrea’s book, ‘Seeds of Encouragement’ is a compilation of short stories. Her second book of which she co-authors, ‘Getting Well: Mind, Body and Spirit’ will be released in March, 2013. Her website: http://sharpwomen.com/.