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Thursday, August 26, 2010

Superhero Character

My son Evan has a best friend, Kenny. Many of you have followed Kenny's saga over the past two years, but for those who are new to The Purpose Post, a brief synopsis of Kenny's journey. Two years ago, just days after he turned five, the van in which Kenny was riding was t-boned. The vehicle hit right where Kenny was sitting. He sustained massive injuries to his spinal cord, and was hospitalized for 6 months.

Kenny practicing to be 'Aquaman'!
Thankfully and with God's great grace, Kenny is making amazing progress in his recovery! Just last week, he was able to take some very shaky steps in a swimming pool. This is a boy about whom some doctors said would never be able to move his legs again. You can view more of Kenny's story and progress at the Caring Bridge site link on the left.

Kenny just celebrated his seventh birthday and requested a Superman theme for his party this year. He rolled in to the party room with a huge smile and a Superman-style cape on; only his had a big 'K' in the center. His attitude in adversity is monumental. Kenny is truly the closest person I know to a real superhero!

We all have superheroes in our lives. Most of them don't think of themselves that way. I am very blessed to know several: a young single mom, a firefighter, a band teacher who spends a month before school starts with his students...Just the other day I ran into an acquaintance who is working at the new homeless shelter downtown. She is no doubt a hero to someone.

Being a superhero isn't just about the physical, either. Strength of character is just as important; more so, in fact. Are you getting tired of listening to the seemingly never-ending parade of people messing up and then having a million excuses and justifications for their motives? Bah. It's refreshing when you hear someone say, "I messed up. I did something wrong. I am sorry. I am ready to take the consequences." Even more so when they truly mean it.

Perhaps that is why King David is appealing to so many people. Almost everyone knows the story of David and Goliath. David became the greatest warrior king in the history of Israel. In his day, he was a superhero, strong and wise.

Most people also know the story of King David and Bathsheba. How he looked out over the city and saw a beautiful woman in her bath...and didn't do the right thing. How he had her husband Uriah killed and tried to act as if nothing had happened. But David knew the truth. And when God sent a prophet to chastise David, he said merely, "I have sinned against the Lord." That's all he said. No whiny explanations about women tempting him or how he was the King and could do whatever he wanted or how Uriah got in the way of the arrow that shot him. Nope. David admitted his mistake. And then did an amazing thing. He shut up. He took  responsibility and he shut up.

To me, this takes even more courage than facing a giant in battle. Admitting our mistakes and humbly asking forgiveness of the people we've hurt; risking embarrassment and gossip. This is superhuman character. The story of David is proof that even the best of us mess up. The good news is that, if we have a truly repentant heart, we can be forgiven. By God and by the people around us.

So how many superheroes do you know? A bunch, I'll bet. The caregiver for an ailing spouse or parent, the friend who rehabilitates abused dogs, the volunteer who makes sure the scout meeting happens. Maybe you could let them know how super you think they are. Do you have a friend fighting cancer or rebuilding a life after abuse? That takes superhuman strength of character, too. Say a prayer of thanksgiving for the example and the inspiration they bring to your life.

While you're at it, give yourself a pat on the back, too. Because you are probably a hero to someone. And don't worry if your cape gets a bit "wrinkled" at times! Just be a Character Superhero, admit it and ask for forgiveness. You'll get it from God. Chances are, from the people around you, as well.


P.S. Check out Kenny's amazing progress at the Caring Bridge link on the upper left!

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San Antonio, Texas
I am a certified life coach and would love to help you discover and live your life's purpose!