What I Learned - I Was Picked by Howard Shapiro
A life affirming, heart-breaking & uplifting true story that will leave you in awe of one of the world's true heroes.
What I Learned:
This was pretty much John's mantra, and a great one at that. I will remember this phrase for as long as I live.
...a really important lesson - and one we all need reminded of from time to time.
Always try to remember not to let your situation, whatever it may be, define you. You can achieve anything you set your mind to, in spite of what is going on around you at the time.
...enough said really!
I have a version of this quote on my wall. It's a really important one for us to try and remember. Some people cram more living into a few months than others achieve in an entire 80 year life span. And an offshoot of this for me is to pay attention. Really pay attention to the little things that make you smile, count your blessings I guess. Someone out there would give everything they have for the life you are living right now, regardless of your situation, someone will be looking at you and thinking how lucky you are, or noting what you have achieved even when you can't always see it for yourself. Appreciate what you have right now, and how far you have come.
Always! It will be worth it! Time's like these are priceless.
...don't ever wait. It's such a waste of precious time. Go after what you want in life now. Really, what is it that's actually stopping you?
That reward might be something as simple as you having a great night's sleep because you physically gave your all to something, no matter how insignificant that something might seem. When you give your all, body and soul, you will always be a better person for it.
"There isn't always a tomorrow..." I mean really, does it get any more powerful than that?
My Goodreads Review:
I Was Picked: The John Challis Story by Howard ShapiroMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A heart-achingly beautiful book telling the story of one of life's true heroes.
I went into this book with no idea what to expect, as I had never heard anything about the John Challis story before, and I finished this book in tears wondering why everyone in the world hasn't heard about the John Challis story.
An incredibly brave & resilient young man who met every thing that was thrown at him head on with a grace and perseverance and attitude of one well beyond his years. This young man was truly incredible.
I will be honest, I cried most of my way through this amazing story, so I would say it is not one to read in public, but I was also so compelled that I read it in one sitting at home.
Everyone needs to read this book.
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Happy Reading!
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