I’ve watched recently via Amazon Prime, documentaries about two celebrity icons. One is Celine Dion, the greatest singer of our time and the other is Roger Federer, the greatest tennis player. Both reigned at the top of their fields and hailed as the best in the world. Sickness, injuries and impact of aging stop us in our tracks. There is the realization of our mortality and frailty of being human. These two famous persons are no exception.
I am a fan of both celebrities and was emotional watching them struggle and navigate painful moments. Celine Dion has been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome which is a rare disease - only affecting 1 in a million. In the show “I am”, Celine bared it all even showing at one point as she was experiencing spasm attack and seizure. This disease has crippled her and she had to cancel her tours. She misses her voice a lot and the opportunity to perform. Given all these hurdles, she tries her best to fight on, each and every day.
Roger Federer, on the other hand, had four knee surgeries to address injuries and even with that did not return to his competitive form. At 41, he made the painful decision to retire and leave the sport he so loved. In the show, “Twelve Final Days”, you see him not only as an athlete but a husband, father, son and a friend. My admiration for him grew seeing how he can find friendship among his tennis rivals. His friendship with Rafa Nadal and their respect for one another is truly a testament to their remarkable personalities.
We see in their journeys that when they are paralyzed with sickness/health issues, the fame becomes a thing of the past. Trophies, accolades become a reminder of the glorious days. It is truly a gift if one rises above an uncertain situation and realizes what really matters in life - family, relationships and the appreciation of the people who brought one to where he/she is. We see them deeply grateful for the awesome experience and privilege, life has brought them. More importantly, they intentionally move on from challenges, defy the odds and appreciate what they currently have. Their response toward hardships is such an inspiration.
There is no escaping the realities of our mortality. Let it be a lesson then to us while we have the energy and vitality. What is the lesson? As a Christian, I believe our compass is always acknowledging that there is a God who is in control of everything. Surrendering to His will and plan is the sweetest reward of all. Committing and dedicating our lives to Him is the best way of living. Our talents, skills and opportunities before us are not our own but are gifts from above. Finding our purpose of how we can make use of these gifts to the betterment of our sphere of influence would make our journey here on earth more meaningful. Let us be good stewards of what He has given and use them for God’s glory and honour!
Psalm 90: 10; 12
"Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
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#surrendertoGod #brightspots #blessed #grateful #spreadpositivity #spreadhope #inspire #encourage #Godsees #Godisgood #Godisfaithful #Godissovereign #JesusisLord
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