Friday, January 14, 2011

LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS

     Nick Vujicic was born without arms and legs.  What would you do in that situation?  In his book LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS (2010, Doubleday), Nick reveals his reaction and so much more.  Before I say anything else, let me say that I found this book very challenging.  It could take a lifetime putting some of the lessons into practice to master them. 
     Much like televangelist Robert H. Schuller, Nick believes you must believe in yourself.  You must believe God has a wonderful plan for your life.  You were created for a purpose.  No matter how bleak your situation may look and no matter how cruddy your circumstances may be, you can have a bright future.  This alone is a hard concept for me to grasp with my anxiety and depression issues sometimes.  I do believe it though. Nick is onto something here.  When things look hopeless or when times are particularly tough, we must keep pressing on.  One thing Nick encourages readers to do is to have an attitude of gratitude. Be thankful for the things you do have.  Eagerly anticipate and be thankful for the good that is to come in your life.  Vujicic also says a key to moving out of times of despair is to reach out and help others through their tough times. Again, easier said than done!
     Nick believes if you are going to have a fulfilling life you have to be willing to take risks as you pursue your passions and dreams.   It is also important to surround yourself with people who are supportive of you. 
     In the book, Nick shares how he moved from feeling terrible about himself, to now speaking words of inspiration in front of thousands of people. He writes candidly about facing his fears head on.  It is evident throughout the book that this Australian born 'bloke' has a great sense of humour. Nick shares how he has fun poking fun at himself.  He also shares how he has worked hard to become as independent as possible, though he still uses caregivers.  Amazingly, he writes how he feels other people have worse hands of cards than he does in life.  He talks of situations of dire poverty he has seen overseas for example.
     If you are looking for a highly inspirational book from the viewpoint of positive Christianity, this is the book for you.  If you are looking for something deep theologically, try something else.