About a 18 months, ago a young girl (grade 7) was hit by a garbage truck in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. She was hurt so badly no one thought she would live; but her parents and much of the community began to pray and Lydia not only survived, but has recovered. She has obviously learned a lot about life through this near death experience. Here is Lydia’s short but powerful and encouraging speech she made to her graduating (grade 8) class:
I can do anything. I have learned this truth this past year. I have been on a hard journey of recovery. I could have died, but God gave me a second chance to live, and life is a precious gift. I am doing my best to live fully, to treasure the life that I have been given.
I want to share the hope that I have. I want to ignite a flicker of hope in others, reminding them that anything is possible.
I spent 2 months in a deep coma at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, where I could not talk, or walk, or even move on my own. From July until October, I was at Holland Bloorview, a children’s rehab hospital. In August, when I was at home visiting my family, on my dad’s birthday, I spoke my first sentences. This past school year, I have spent at home with therapists, teachers and support workers, and I have relearned how to walk, balance, think and communicate. I am recovering.
Our attitudes are very important. They shape us. They have a huge impact on life. It is important to not face each day with a crummy attitude. Instead, put on a smile, be thankful, and face each day with hope and strength.
“Life is 10% what happens to us, and 90% of how we react to it.” We can’t control everything that happens to us, but we can control our attitudes. Expect the unexpected – something totally out of the ordinary, and when that happens, you’ll be ready to embrace it, whatever “it” is.
Over the last year, I have gone through many mixed emotions. There were times at night when I felt like giving up, but God gave me hope. In the morning, I awoke with a new perspective, renewed faith, and determination. When hard times come your way, when the unexpected happens, do not lose hope or give up. Have faith, a positive attitude and you’ll find strength for each step of your journey. Thank you for encouraging me in mine.
Lydia Herrle