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Sail Through Adversity
Written on 12 March 2009 by Mark Lewis. 12 comments.I was lying face down in the water unable to lift my head. I had just dived in to the surf and without warning I struck my head against the ground beneath me. The sudden shock and horror expelled what air I had in my lungs moments prior. It wasn’t long before I gasped for air only to find water fill my lungs.
Misfortune knocks on everyone’s door. It’s inevitable. You can count on the sun rising in the east, setting in the west, and adversity to change your life. For some, misfortune only wears them down while others are luckier having learned something. How you confront your misfortune will determine your outcome.
Misfortune brings opportunity.
The world I would have missed
I was dragged to the beach by my friends and given medical attention. I awoke en route to the hospital, unable to feel anything other than my friend’s hands wrapped around my head. I had broken my neck. What had I done?
Misfortune knocked on my door that evening. I cried. I admit, I cried quite a bit. It was painful. When the pain settled and the tears dried up I realized I was still alive. I had cheated death.
A different path
It would be six months of hospitals and rehabilitation before my misfortune was over. I sit here today, seven years later, writing this post from my wheelchair with a body who defies its master. And yes, I’m happy.
It’s not uncommon for people to see my paralysis as my misfortune. I beg to differ. Breaking my neck, now that’s misfortune. Living with the ensuing paralysis is just life.
You cannot live through life with the naïve thought that the road you choose will be the road you travel to the very end. It will set you up for failure and your own misfortune will wear you down. Know that there are many roads that lead to the same point and that each road has its drawbacks and benefits.
I have met some truly amazing people as a result of having a disability. Their friendships have enriched my life. I have also been fortunate to have had some unbelievable experiences. During my first Paralympic Sailing Campaign, I spent three years sailing and traveling. I have grown much during this time and have learned more about myself than most people will in their lifetime. Lastly, I have made astounding progress to where I want to be.
What would life be like if I had not dived into the surf that evening? I don’t care. I’m too busy living.
Hello.
I'm Mark. When life gives me lemons I just roll with it.
Comments (4 await moderation)
Share your comments below. You'd be surprised of the value in what you have to say.
Well said Mark. @garyvee’s conversation on What are you passionate about? brought me to your post. I will tweet your message because it’s one that should be heard. Keep on doing what you’re doing and keep on living. Let me know if I can help in any way.
@stefanholt
Thanks Stefan!
Mark, I hardly know what to say. It was quite a shock to read this. This is a fantastic attitude. I read once some research showing that those who have been injured are just as happy as they were before and just as happy as those who are not injured.
There are a lot of powerful ideas packed into these few words:
“Breaking my neck, now that’s misfortune. Living with the ensuing paralysis is just life.”
Thanks for sharing this we me and letting me get to know you a little better.
Wow Mark, what a powerful and inspiring story. Your attitude is an outstanding example and I feel richer for having read this article. A while back I wrote about my friend John who has also faced adversity and come of the victor. Here’s the story if you are interested Are You Challenged or Disabled? and thank you for this peek into your life and your mindset.
Good for you!!!!!!!!!!! :) So many people just sink under what life throws at them. Your story is in inspiration to everyone.
great article mate, very inspiring.
Such a great story and attitude that you have.
Most of people that have to face challenge such yours will be drown in sadness, regret and ‘what if’ situation.
For me, how bad something that turn out to be, there is always the positive side and the alternative way to overcome such problem.
Cheers!
Mark-great message, great site, I am so honored to have been part of your journey since your injury. Keep it up, keep shakin’-Kristy