Living Within the Mist

~James 4:14…What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

If you think of an aerosol can and how at the initial pump mists shots out, very similar to the way infants at birth shot from the womb. That mist, which is like our lives, then spreads out and often lands on objects or people that are in its path. In the same way our life should spread out and leave a lasting impression on those who are in our sphere of influence.
Laker fan or not, Kobe fan or not, you cannot mention the game of basketball without mentioning Kobe Bryant and the impact he had, not only on the court as a dynamic player but also the man he evolved into off the court.  Like the mist, Kobe took full advantage of the opportunities he encountered to leave an impression that will live on long after January 26, 2020.

So, as we process the news of the passing of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and the other passengers who were aboard the helicopter, let us pray for the families, shed our tears and then move forward with a determination that will allow us to take the best parts of Kobe the man and embody them within ourselves to enhance our own greatness. Using the talents and skills that we have been gifted with to impact in a positive way the lives of those we encounter. Becoming as 2 Corinthians 2:15 says, “the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing”. 

​However, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or saddened by the events surrounding the death of Kobe Bryant and the other passengers or if you are just overwhelmed by life in general keep in mind the acronym P.A.D.S. Pads are defined as a guard worn to shield body parts (in this case your heart and emotions) against impact.
P – Pray
A – Allow yourself to feel and not attempt to suppress your emotions
D – Disconnect from the news and social media
S – Seek help from a trained professional

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