Heroes

I have had a sore throat and probable sinus infection this week. The only good part about being sick is, it does give a person more time to think, since all I had the strength to do was rest and take care of myself!

Combine with that, Tim is re-reading a book by one of our favorite authors as a part of sermon preparation. That brought to mind this author, Tim Hansel.

With extra time on my hands this week, I searched to try and find an update on this author. The update I found, sadly, shows him in ill health. The site encouraged, during this season of thanksgiving, those who have been inspired by his books to send him an email, which I did.

While navigating that site, I noticed a quote by Anastasia Hansel. It's probably safe to assume she's related to Tim Hansel, but I couldn't find out for sure. The site gave a thought provoking quote from her:

Each one of us who travels further than the obstacles will know a different kind of life.
- Anastasia Hansel

If you have read any of Tim Hansel's books, you know that many years ago, he had an accidental fall while mountain climbing with friends. He fell into a crevasse in the ice that resulted in the equivalent of a six-story fall. He somehow managed to pull himself out of there, but he suffered permanent injuries to his neck and back that resulted in intense chronic pain. When he talks about things like choosing joy in the midst of life's hurts, learning patience, looking for the little everyday miracles, etc., he brings a unique perspective honed by his own suffering.

The quote from Anastasia reflects the same kind of courage and determination: to overcome obstacles, regardless of how huge they appear, and to receive and grow from the lessons we learn in the process.

Tim Hansel went on to found the organization called Summit Expedition, a wilderness survival school for people of all ages who seek a deeper experience with themselves, others and God. I remember seeing pictures a few years ago of people confined to wheelchairs mountain climbing through this organization. How awesome!

This is such a great reminder for me in at least three ways:

1. Remember to see the potential and not the limitations in life and in people.
2. Learn from our obstacles and press on. Become a better person as a result.
3. Who are my heroes and have I taken the time to bless them by telling them so?

Who are your heroes? During this season of thanksgiving, I would invite you to let them know what they mean to you.