some not as dramatic as others, but each one valuable and significant. I am an ordinary
woman who experienced extraordinary results from finally recognizing my willpower
was inferior to that of others. I needed to share the truths of my story with those who
have witnessed by struggles and listened to my complaints during the first three-plus
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decades of my life. I wanted to inspire those with any addiction that takes away the full
enjoyment of a life that centers around God, family and friends.
You must take full accountability for your choices. Today’s addictions go far beyond
alcohol, prescription and illegal drugs, and sex. They include fast food, sugar-infused
food, spousal and child abuse, lying, excessive use of social media, especially texting,
and spending beyond our means. But work can be addictive, too, and you’re not the one
who suffers most. World renowned Rick Warren, founder and pastor of Saddleback
Church in Southern California, authored The Purpose Driven Life, which has been read
by over 100 million people in 137 languages. He recently wrote:
Your work and your worth are two different things. Many of you grew up being told
you’re worthless, and you’re out in the workplace trying to prove everyone wrong. In the
back of your mind, you’re telling yourself, “I’m going to show them. I’m going to prove
them wrong.” You work harder and harder, but no matter how hard you work, it’s never
enough. Just about the time you start to relax, you hear a haunting voice telling you, “Keep pedaling. Somebody’s catching up!” You need to get rid of the voice. It’s feeding you a lie.
As a pastor, I’ve been by many bedsides as people died. I’ve seen many people take their
last breath, sometimes at a hospital, sometimes in a home, and sometimes at the scene of an
accident. Among all of the people I’ve watched die in my life, I’ve never heard anyone say
with their dying breath, “I wish I’d spent more time at the office.”
Not one.
(Daily Hope, “Your Work and Your Worth Are Two Different Things,” Nov.29, 2015, ©
2015 by Rick Warren)
Many of you will wonder if I ever filled out another Miracle Card. Truthfully, I have
never again felt the need to do so. My three wishes were fulfilled, and in the process I
have learned that God hears my prayers even when they come directly from my heart.
One thing more. Remember that white envelope I stepped on the weekend Ian and I
first met in San Diego? I loved the Walpole quotation so much I had it engraved on a
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glass prism and gifted it to Ian much later in our relationship. It was a perfect response to
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