Something to start your day with.........

DON'T WORRY IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS!

Which is easy to say until you are in the midst of a really big one,

I know. But the only people I am aware of who don't have troubles are

gathered in little neighborhoods. Most communities have at least one.

We call them cemeteries. If you're breathing, you have difficulties.

It's the way of life. And believe it or not, most of your problems

may actually be good for you!

Let me explain.

Maybe you have seen the Great Barrier Reef, stretching some 1,800 miles

from New Guinea to Australia. Tour guides regularly take visitors to

view the reef. On one tour, the guide was asked an interesting question.

"I notice that the lagoon side of the reef looks pale and lifeless,

while the ocean side is vibrant and colorful," a traveler observed.

"Why is this?"

The guide gave an interesting answer: "The coral around the lagoon side

is in still water, with no challenge for its survival. It dies early.

The coral on the ocean side is constantly being tested by wind, waves,

storms -- surges of power. It has to fight for survival every day of

it's life. As it is challenged and tested it changes and adapts. It

grows healthy. It grows strong. And it reproduces." Then he added this

telling note: "That's the way it is with every living organism."

That is how it is with people! Challenged and tested, we come alive!

Like coral pounded by the sea, we grow! Physical demands can cause us

to grow stronger. Mental and emotional stress can produce tough-mindedness

and resiliency. Spiritual testing can produce strength of character and

faithfulness.

So, you have problems -- no problem! Just tell yourself, "There I grow again!"