"May the angels protect you
Trouble neglect you
And heaven accept you when its time to go home
May you always have plenty
The glass never empty
Know in your belly
You're never alone
May your tears come from laughing
You find friends worth having
As every year passes
They mean more than gold
May you win and stay humble
Smile more than grumble
And know when you stumble
You're never alone
Never alone
Never alone
I'll be in every beat of your heart
When you face the unknown
Wherever you fly
This isn't goodbye
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone
I have to be honest
As much as I wanted
I’m not gonna promise that cold winds won't blow
So when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You're never alone
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone
So when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You¹re never alone"
- From "Never Alone"- Jim Brickman and Sara Evans
I really like this song, because whether or not the author and songwriter intended, it relates closely to my Christian faith. With God, it is our comfort to know that He will guide us and provide the direction for our life. He inspires others-- whether they are parents, teachers, friends, youth leaders, pastors, or fellow students-- to mentor us, lead us and encourage us to make the right decisions as we walk the "old dusty trail". In addition, we are comforted that Christ has forgiven our mistakes in the past, and in the future. We are guaranteed a spot in heaven as long as we believe and trust in Him.
Now everyone wishes everything would go smoothly all of the time, but of course this rarely, if ever, happens. It is understood that we are not perfect, but that doesn't mean we have to be stupid. Being stupid involves doing things that have no real benefits, and doing things that interfere with our own personal dreams and life goals. I believe the "always have plenty, glass never empty" stanza not only applies to the present, but by leading a Christ-filled life from this point forward we can guide ourselves closer than ever to that path.
Nearly everyday we will "face the unknown," or be challenged by a situation that is new to us. Of course we think we always have the best answers, but frequently it is important to seek personal help through adults, or spiritual help through prayer and Bible readings. With those who love us and a God who loves us, we will truly never be alone. Good Christians---- good students--- good people--- enjoy being challenged and accept the challenge as an undertaking of something we can discover the hidden good and potential for our lives.
As every year passes, we will discover more about ourselves and those around us. I know that I have, especially since I've been at Parkview. Often finding out more about ourselves involves being honest and having many trustworthy relationships with people of all statuses and ages. Finding out more about yourself involves watching the experiences of others and applying what works or doesn't work for them to your own life.
When God decides to reward us, we should look at this as a spiritual blessing, and give him much of the credit, even if we put in all of the material labor. Lately, I have been blessed to win the Student Council Vice Presidential election I campaigned for, earn a 27 composite on my ACT, and I also won the French III and American History Honors top student awards. Of course, no matter how much studying or campaigning I can do, these achievements would not be possible without God on my side. Now that I have won these awards and acclaims, it is my duty to be humble. While I can of course let others know that I have my personal accomplishments, it is my role to encourage others to also do their best so that they can compete with me, and I can compete with them as well in areas where they are talented.
Attitudes are very important to me. That's why many of you have noticed and in fact told me that I always seem to have smile on my face. A smile is something simple that can inspire someone to have a better day, or put someone in a better mood. Try it; take time to lift someone up! You'll probably feel better yourself, too.
Finally, when "cold winds do blow", and "hard times have found you", don't give up and don't be dismayed. Return to those who have been for you when you needed it the most.. your God, your family and your friends! These are the people whose memories will last a lifetime!
