Perspective

I could have titled this entry many things because I have learned many things from this man's life.

On Monday, we had a quest speaker at Youth Town as we typically do on Monday’s. I have heard this man speaker numerous times and he is a great supporter of Youth Town. Jim Jackson is a retired Treasury Agent and has received many awards and accolades. He was forced to retire when he developed Parkinson’s. He is an amazing man and I have had the opportunity to hear his story and perseverance before, but he said something that will stick with me for a long time. He talked about his incurable, progressive disease and stated that he has had to answer the question, “How do I go on knowing that today is the best I’ll ever be?” I cannot even begin to imagine the mental and emotional battle he goes through knowing that his disease gets worse by the day and that he can do nothing to change that. Amazingly, this man has more joy and purpose in life than I can comprehend even looking at my own life, much less taking into consideration his battles. I do not know how I would handle such a situation, but I certainly do not think I would be as gracious and unselfish. He gives his time and energy to help struggling teens find meaning and purpose and to raising money and awareness so that the organization can continue. Ultimately, he takes his best, knowing it will be less tomorrow, and attempts to give it to God by living in such a way that God will be pleased. I am proud to know Jim and to be able to learn from his example.

God, help me to have the perspective that you have given Jim!