We have all had encounters where we just wanted to give up, whether you failed a class or fell every time you looked at a pair of high heels, we have all been there. Giving up is always the first thing that pops into your head, but it should be the very last resort. Giving up is taking the easy way out. Giving up is quitting. Giving up is letting your enemy win. Have you ever worked so hard and put all of your effort into something and it worked? There are many reasons I never gave up, and I hope you can use them too.
1. My faith.
I'm not a perfect Christian by no means, but any time I feel like giving up I turn to prayer and my bible. God has given us so much all we have to do is give all of our worries and fears to him. He gave his one and only son to die on the cross for our sins the least we can do is talk to him and trust him to fight our enemies and help us through tough times.
2. My Parents.
We do not always see eye-to-eye, but we do encourage each other to never give up. Momma has always been the glue to my puzzle when it comes to my life. From cheering the loudest at my soccer games to calming me down on the phone while I had a mental breakdown in college. Daddy never failed to be a phone call away and always had my back, and encouraged me to never back down from a fight and always give my all. My stepparents were always by my side even if my parents could not be there you could bet one of my four parents would always be there. Never take your parents for granted and always show your appreciation.
3. My community.
Growing up in a small town everyone knows everyone and nobody's business is a secret. Therefore, flunking out of college was never an option! My community has sponsored many of the events I have participated in throughout my childhood from FFA BBQ plates to college scholarships I owe them a good reputation. The ladies I work with at the library never fail to make me feel better whether it's a talk that I need but don't want, or a compliment on how much I've grown up
4. Encouragement.
I have never failed to have encouragement from talks with my preacher to encouraging texts from my boyfriend it pays to talk to people. My roommate is always there for me and encourages me to study now, so we can go out later. You may have to find encouragement if it isn't clear to you. For example, that guy who made your Starbucks drink that will keep you up to study for finals is an encourager. He makes that drink with pride encouraging you to stay up and come back when you need to study for the next final.
5. Prove them wrong!
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18. There are people who want you to fail. I know, it's a little discouraging to realize, but suck it up buttercup it's time to prove them wrong! Everyone always said "You won't stay in Tifton long it's too far away from home". Guess what y'all? I'll be back in Tifton in the fall unlike most who moved away and came crawling back home.
6. Seek and give.
When it comes to encouragement I always give way more than I receive. It feels good to encourage my peers, and when it's given back it's just as great. Just smiling at people can make their whole day. A friendly wave or a simple compliment can make my entire week! Look out for simple things and love your life!
7. The result will be worth it.
No matter what it is you are trying to achieve once you accomplish it you can move mountains! If it's a college degree you can bet you have already made better for yourself and at least a few more dollars on your paycheck. If it's your very own car you can control everything about it from who drives it to what channels are programmed on the radio. You can do anything you set your mind to, but don't expect the journey to be easy. Celebrate your rainbows, and stop counting your storms!
