LYDIA

Live Your Day Inspired Anew

Last night I watched a 20/20 about a young female who was murdered and her killer attempted to do the same to another young female. Fortunately, the second victim lived. She was inspiring to watch. Not only were the doctors amazed by her survival but the progress she was making in her recovery was remarkable.

Her name is Lydia, and the acronym for her name she shared with us she uses as a reminder for how far she has come. On the sentencing day of her attacker, she was unable to speak as she has to relearn how to talk due to her injuries but she bravely stood in front of everyone as her father read aloud her words. She spoke about forgiveness for him and how she would not let fear and bitterness run her life.

The interviewer on the show spoke to her at the end and she was able to communicate, and effectively at that! She said, "I choose peace and love". Wow! Not only is her story incredible but her fortitude, determination and character are astounding! I am so inspired by her. It was an intense reminder that each day has to be taken as a new opportunity and how you use that is up to you.

No one would've blamed her for giving up, no one would've been judgmental or questioning if she was angry and upset. But she decided that wasn't her path. Anger and bitterness are not her way. The inner strength she shows is incredible and I am forever indebted to her for reminding me that no matter what the circumstances are, I am still in control of ME.

Though there are things about my injury I can't control and the healing process will take its own course, I can control my attitude. I can control my behavior. I am grateful for walking away from that accident and I am grateful that my concussions isn't worse than it is. What ever will come of this situation will get me where I need to go.

Whether or not it is somewhere I am aware of or not, remains to be seen. But God knows and He will lead me there. Each day is its own. Today I am actually really struggling with being irritated but I am going to do my best to remember that what ever today ends up being, will be dictated by me.

I am so grateful for Lydia, for her strength and courage and her heart. It does not help me to compare myself to others. Each person is dealing with their own situation in their own way. What does help me is being exposed to inspirational stories of strength, hope, love and determination. Recovery is different for everyone and I am working on accepting what mine will be.