Adversity Doesn't Discriminate (Part II)

In part one, I have made the case for the fact that “Adversity does not discriminate”(http://a-ologunleko.blogspot.com/2020/03/adversity-doesnt-discriminate-part-i.html). I went further to shed light briefly into the life of one of the incredible minds that shaped the 20^th century scientific exploits despite life’s challenges. Rather than being consumed by adverse conditions, we can choose to open our eyes with focus to nurture the accompanying opportunities there-in to fruition. In the words of Roy T. Bennett, “when things do not go your way, remember that every challenge – every adversity – contains within it the seeds of opportunity and growth”. Truly, adversity can be self-inflicted, but in some instances the causative factors are extraneous in origin.

In this instance, my case study is named Nicholas or Nick as he’s fondly called. He is married with four (4) children, an ‘award winning’ author, an accomplished public speaker, an actor, a University graduate at age 21 and a source of inspiration to many all over the world. Nick Vujicic came into my consciousness in year 2005 through his video recording. The ‘sound-track’ was of an emotional Hymn I truly love – “In Christ Alone”. I had bought the DVD with the aim of motivating some teenagers in my care as a Youth Pastor while in a country far away from my base. The message is simple: “If Nick can be this successful, you have no excuse for failure”. His case made an indelible imprint on my mind and I have followed his progress up to this moment. May he continue to be a shining light worthy of emulation.

Born with unique medical condition, Nick is truly an amazing guy seeing how he turned his disadvantageous frame to a great advantage for exploits on the global scene. “No arms, no legs, no worries” series has inspired so many souls. According to Nick, “Often people ask how I manage to be happy despite having no arms and no legs. The quick answer is that I have a choice. I can be angry about not having limbs, or I can be thankful that I have a purpose. I choose gratitude.” In other words, our choice(s) in the face of adversity will determine whether we will win pleasantly or lose catastrophically.

The attitude of “Why me?” in the face of adversity is the wrong one. There can be no testimony without the test. It’s perhaps the motivation behind Lance W. Essihos’ “University of Adversity” podcasts. No matter what you’re going through, don’t murmur, don’t complain, don’t share blame. Brace up to dare the odds. If Nick can make it, you too can. In conclusion, I leave you with this quote from Nick – “Often time we feel like either we can’t make a world of difference, or we feel that it’s not going to change anything any way. The truth is you can change someone’s day, you can change someone’s life, but you have to show up and do what you got to do to actually see any fruit coming from it.”