Paradise News

Tag: United States

  • Sec. of State warns of misleading voter registration PSA

    Sec. of State warns of misleading voter registration PSA

    Published 9:15 am Sunday, August 4, 2024

    Secretary of State Wes Allen is warning Alabama citizens about a misleading public service announcement currently airing in Alabama.

    The PSA, distributed by Vote411, an operation of the League of Women Voters, instructs Alabamians to register to vote using the Vote411 website. The website captures the website visitor’s personal data including their IP address and contact information and then, once the information has been captured, the individual is directed to the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.

    “I’m exposing this data-mining collection effort masquerading as Vote411. It’s a sham. This is simply a shady way to collect the IP addresses and personal data of Alabama citizens. In the website’s fine print, the League of Women Voters disclose that ‘The League may, from time to time, share the name and mailing address of its non-member financial supporters with other non-profit organizations,’” said Secretary Allen. “But they hide that in a small link they hope no one will read.”

    Meanwhile, Kathy Jones, president of the League of Women Voters of Alabama and its Education Fund, said in an interview with al.com that Vote411 guides users to appropriate state websites for voter registration and other election-related services. She said the Secretary of State’s accusation is misleading and that Vote411 is transparent in communicating the data it is collecting from users.

    Allen said he wants to ensure that eligible Alabama citizens are able to register to vote securely, using trusted voter registration methods.

    “Alabama citizens can rest assured that the Secretary of State’s office and local election officials are well-equipped to handle voter registration in Alabama. There is no reason to use a data collection website like the one being managed by the League of Women Voters which will give your personal data to other entities without your knowledge and could likely put your personal data at risk. Skip these data collecting websites and go directly to the secure website at AlabamaVotes.gov where your privacy will be respected,” Secretary Allen explained.

    Eligible Alabama citizens may register to vote online at www.AlabamaVotes.gov or mail a voter registration form to their local Board of Registrars.

    Source

  • Redefining Entrepreneurship and Embracing Authenticity – The US Times

    In today’s ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, individuals are breaking barriers and redefining traditional notions of success. Nicole Knight, a trailblazing entrepreneur, is one such individual who has embarked on a journey of self-discovery and financial independence. With a background in communication and a burning desire for more, Nicole took a leap of faith, leaving behind her comfortable 9-to-5 job in pursuit of a life that aligned with her passions and aspirations. Her story is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and unwavering determination.

    Finding a New Path: After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Nicole Knight embarked on a career in corporate America. Although she was making a decent living, she couldn’t ignore the nagging feeling that entrepreneurship was her true calling. It was during this period of self-reflection that Nicole stumbled upon a unique path that would not only challenge societal norms but also empower her to embrace her individuality fully. Intrigued by the concept of sugar-baby arrangements, Nicole ventured into the world of companionship and discovered a completely different structure that piqued her interest.

    A Transformative Encounter: It was through her newfound involvement in the industry that Nicole crossed paths with a woman who served as both a mentor and a source of inspiration. This encounter proved transformative, as it not only opened her eyes to new possibilities but also taught her invaluable lessons about the industry. In April 2021, armed with newfound knowledge and an unyielding spirit, Nicole bid farewell to her corporate job and embarked on a remarkable journey as a companion and content creator on OnlyFans. She had made a conscious decision to take control of her life and pursue her dreams on her own terms.

    Embracing Authenticity: The initial phase of Nicole’s journey was not without its challenges. Dealing with the stigma and misunderstanding associated with sex work proved to be a formidable obstacle. For a time, she led a double life, keeping her true vocation hidden from friends and family. However, as Nicole continued to grow personally and professionally, she realized the importance of authenticity and decided to share her truth with her loved ones. This courageous step not only relieved the burden of secrecy but also allowed her to fully embody her brand and identity.

    Entrepreneurial Growth: In the realm of entrepreneurship, there is no set instruction manual. Nicole’s path was paved through trial and error, extensive research, and candid conversations with other providers in the industry. She learned to navigate the intricacies of her business, honing her skills in time management, branding, marketing, and customer experience. Behind the scenes, Nicole transformed herself into a true entrepreneur, diligently managing her website, social media presence, emails, search engine optimization, and analytics. Her dedication to excellence and customization allowed her to thrive in a niche market and attract her desired clientele.

    The Power of Authenticity: Nicole Knight’s success story stems from her unwavering commitment to authenticity. By embracing her true self, both personally and professionally, she witnessed a remarkable transformation in her business. Coming out to her friends and family was a pivotal moment, one that allowed her to shed the conventional expectations and be true to herself. She let go of the facades she had once employed, opting instead for branding, marketing, and visuals that genuinely represented Nicole as an individual. This commitment to authenticity not only resonated with her audience but also propelled her revenue to new heights. Nicole attracted high-quality clients who appreciated and valued her true essence. It is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself and pursuing passions wholeheartedly.

    A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Nicole Knight’s journey embodies the essence of entrepreneurship, where motivation, drive, and a relentless pursuit of success are the driving forces. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a fiery passion and constantly pushing oneself beyond comfort zones. Nicole understands that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint, and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to trust their instincts, take calculated risks, and embrace their uniqueness. She firmly believes that trying to please everyone is an exercise in futility and that true success lies in doing what one truly desires.

    Balancing Work and Self-Care: In addition to her professional endeavors, Nicole recognizes the significance of work-life balance and self-care. She maintains her mental sharpness and discipline through activities like yoga and strength training. Recognizing the importance of delegating tasks, Nicole has enlisted the assistance of an assistant to manage certain aspects of her business, allowing her to focus on revenue-generating activities and personal growth.

    The Future Ahead: Looking toward the future, Nicole Knight envisions continued growth and exploration. She aims to strengthen her relationships with her clients, explore new photography strategies, and possibly delve into the world of modeling. Her ambitions extend beyond the realm of companionship and content creation, as she plans to invest in real estate and pursue other entrepreneurial ventures. With several properties already under her belt, Nicole aims to expand her portfolio and eventually own multiple businesses. As a young entrepreneur, she remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead and follows her passions with unwavering dedication.

    Conclusion: Nicole Knight’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity and unwavering determination. She serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs worldwide, breaking societal barriers and forging her own path to success. As she continues to make her mark in the industry, Nicole’s story will undoubtedly inspire individuals to embrace their true selves, challenge the status quo, and pursue their passions relentlessly.

    To learn more about Nicole Knight and her inspiring journey,

    Visit: 

    NicoleKnight.com
    Twitter.com/NicoleKnightFTL
    Instagram.com/NicoleKnightFTL



    Source

  • Gorsuch: Too Many New Laws Could Impair Americans’ Freedoms | The Liberty Beacon


    Gorsuch: Too Many New Laws Could Impair Americans’ Freedoms

    BREITBART

    Supreme Court Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch said on this week’s broadcast of “Fox News Sunday” that the United States has too many federal laws.

    Host Shannon Bream said, “I think it will be eye opening to the American people, the idea that so pretty much of our conduct is over regulated and over criminalized many cases. Apparently you and are committing felonies every day without possibly even knowing it.”

    Gorsuch said, “I think that might be true. Some professors say there are now so many federal laws on the books that every American over the age of 18 commits one felony a day. That’s happened in my lifetime….

    ***

    “On the one hand we need laws to keep us free and safe…

    ***

    “As a judge for 18 years, I just came to see them case after case trying to live their lives raise their families and just getting whacked by laws unexpectedly.”

    READ COMPLETE ORGINAL ARTIFLE HERE

    *********

    Header featured image (edited) credit: Gorsuch/Alex Wong/Getty Images

    Emphasis added by (TLB)

    ••••

    ••••

    Stay tuned tuned…

     

    ••••

    The Liberty Beacon Project is now expanding at a near exponential rate, and for this we are grateful and excited! But we must also be practical. For 7 years we have not asked for any donations, and have built this project with our own funds as we grew. We are now experiencing ever increasing growing pains due to the large number of websites and projects we represent. So we have just installed donation buttons on our websites and ask that you consider this when you visit them. Nothing is too small. We thank you for all your support and your considerations … (TLB)

    ••••

    Comment Policy: As a privately owned web site, we reserve the right to remove comments that contain spam, advertising, vulgarity, threats of violence, racism, or personal/abusive attacks on other users. This also applies to trolling, the use of more than one alias, or just intentional mischief. Enforcement of this policy is at the discretion of this websites administrators. Repeat offenders may be blocked or permanently banned without prior warning.

    ••••

    Disclaimer: TLB websites contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available to our readers under the provisions of “fair use” in an effort to advance a better understanding of political, health, economic and social issues. The material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving it for research and educational purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material for purposes other than “fair use” you must request permission from the copyright owner.

    ••••

    Disclaimer: The information and opinions shared are for informational purposes only including, but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material are not intended as medical advice or instruction. Nothing mentioned is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.



    Source

  • Carr, Poindexter named recipients of MJB Scholarship

    Carr, Poindexter named recipients of MJB Scholarship

    Published 1:00 pm Sunday, August 4, 2024

    Ja’Kayla Carr, left, and Javen Poindexter, were announced as the 2024 recipients of the Maggie
    J. Bryant Scholarship Fund. The scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of Maggie J. Bryant, a resident of Dozier who passed away in 2019. Bryant is pictured on the right. (PHOTOS PROVIDED)

    Representatives of the Maggie J. Bryant Scholarship Fund have announced two students as recipients of the 2024 scholarship.

    The MJB Scholarship Fund was established in 2020 to assist deserving students further their education and embracing the value of lifelong learning and community leadership.

    The scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of Maggie J. Bryant, a resident of Dozier who passed away in 2019, and whose commitment to family, community, and continuous learning was not hindered by physical hearing limitations.

    The 2024 scholarship recipients are Javen Poindexter of Red Level School and Ja’Kayla Carr of Pike County High School.

    Poindexter is a 2024 graduate of Red Level High School where he excelled as a student and an athlete. He has a passion for helping others and giving back to his community as demonstrated by his ability to excel in academics and athletics while serving his community through his church and local community center. Javen was awarded $1,500 to assist with college expenses. He will be attending college on an athletic scholarship with plans to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.

    Carr resides in Andalusia and is a 2024 graduate of Pike County High School where she excelled as a dual-enrollment college student. She has a passion for helping others and giving back to her community as demonstrated by her ability to balance academics, cheerleading, and support her community all while taking college courses. Ja’Kayla was awarded $1,500 to assist with college expenses. She is enrolled at Lurleen B. Wallace College with plans to pursue a degree in Nursing.

    MJB Scholarship recipients serve as role models by demonstrating leadership in community service, academic excellence, and lifelong learning. The recipients can receive up to $1,500 to assist with college expenses. Candidates are nominated or self-nominated each year by June 30, with recipients selected by July 31. The scholarship is open to applicants in Covington, Crenshaw, and Pike counties.

    “This is our third year of recognizing future community leaders who value lifelong learning, servant leadership, and improving their community,” said Marenda Bryant Caldwell, chairperson of the MJB Scholarship Fund. “We know our mother would be proud of the quality of students we have selected in her honor.”

    During her life, Maggie J. Bryant was a nurse aide by education, but also was a self-taught religious scholar, serving at high levels for multiple religious organizations. The scholarship fund was founded by her family to celebrate Bryant’s legacy.

    For more information about the scholarship, visit MJB Scholarship Fund’s Facebook page.

    Source

  • 5 Essential Insights Every Musician Should Know – The US Times

    Today we’d like to introduce you to Morace Landy.

    It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?

    For nearly four decades, I dedicated my career to the music industry, collaborating with numerous artists such as Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, T.I., Fat Joe, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones, Babyface, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Sean Paul, and Run DMC. Additionally, I held executive positions at renowned record labels like Atlantic, Epic, Island, and Warner/Reprise, among others. Throughout my journey, I actively contributed to the growth of artists, guiding them through various stages of their careers, from releasing their debut singles to witnessing their achievement of multi-platinum status.

    I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?

    By prioritizing a healthy work-life balance, I ensured that I maintained a harmonious equilibrium between my personal and professional life.

    Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?

    Credibility holds immense significance for me, and one’s reputation serves as a testament to their character. I have consistently avoided a one-size-fits-all approach when collaborating with artists, recognizing that each of them possesses unique requirements and distinct qualities.

    What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?

    Maintaining humility while consistently putting in the necessary effort is crucial.

    Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?

    To me, success encompasses more than just achieving external markers of accomplishment. It goes beyond material wealth or recognition. True success lies in finding fulfillment and contentment in one’s pursuits, while also making a positive impact on the lives of others. It is about personal growth, overcoming challenges, and continuously striving to reach one’s full potential. Success is a journey of self-discovery, driven by passion, perseverance, and a genuine sense of purpose. Ultimately, it is about living a life that is meaningful, balanced, and aligned with one’s values and aspirations.

    What’s next for you?

    The objective is to forge a fresh trajectory that paves the way for the future careers of aspiring artists within the entertainment industry.

    Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?

    Just go to my website:

    morace landy

    Source

  • DHS Puts Migrant Parole Program On Hold Amid Alleged Fraud | The Liberty Beacon

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Friday that it has temporarily stopped granting new travel authorizations “out of an abundance of caution,” while it reviews sponsor applications.

    The pause was initiated after an internal report by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) found the use of fraudulent information in thousands of application forms filed by sponsors. The report was obtained by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).

    A DHS spokesperson said in a statement to news outlets that the department takes any abuse of the program’s application processes “very seriously.”

    “DHS has review mechanisms in place to detect and prevent fraud and abuse in our immigration processes,” the spokesperson said.

    “Where fraud is identified, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will investigate and litigate applicable cases in immigration court and make criminal referrals to the Department of Justice,” it added.

    The CHNV parole program was set in motion for Venezuelans by President Joe Biden in October 2022 and was intended to help ease the number of illegal border crossings by flying people from certain countries directly to the United States. It was expanded in January 2023 to include Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua.

    The program allows up to 30,000 migrants from the four countries into the United States each month, provided they meet certain conditions, including having a sponsor in the United States who will provide them financial support.

    DHS promised to resume application processing “as quickly as possible, with appropriate safeguards,” noting that it had not identified “issues of concern” relating to the screening and vetting of beneficiaries.

    “The multi-layered screening and vetting for advanced travel authorizations is separate from the screening of U.S.-based supporters,” the DHS spokesperson said.

    Internal Report Finds Fraudulent Information

    An internal report by USCIS found the use of fake social security numbers (SSNs) and false phone numbers in application forms. It found that some phone numbers were not standardized U.S. phone numbers and some had 11 digits.

    In one instance, a sponsor’s phone number appeared in more than 2,000 forms submitted by 200 sponsors. The report found that 100 physical addresses were used in more than 19,000 application forms.

    The report stated that 100,948 forms were filed by 3,218 serial sponsors, indicating the repeated use of the same sponsors in multiple forms. It also found that 24 out of 1,000 most used SSNs belonged to a deceased person.

    FAIR said the report was based on a review conducted by USCIS of more than 2.6 million sponsor application forms received by the agency as of April 17.

    These applications were submitted electronically and reviewed by personnel “who simply deem the application sufficient.” Out of the total applications received, nearly 529,000 applications were approved and 118,000 were rejected.

    Rep. Mark Greene (R-Tenn.), chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, called on the Biden administration to terminate the parole program immediately.

    Greene said DHS’s pause on the program “vindicates every warning” the committee had issued about the program.

    “This is exactly what happens when you create an unlawful mass-parole program,” he said in a statement.

    House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) criticized the Biden administration’s move to implement the program and urged it be “shut it down permanently.”

    “This program should have never existed in the first place. It’s just another way the Biden-Harris Administration has welcomed hundreds of thousands of aliens into our country, unchecked,” he stated on X.

    At least 494,799 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela have been allowed entry into the country under the administration’s CHNV parole program through June 2024, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

    Florida and Texas have received the most parole participants.

    *********

    (TLB) published this article by Aldgra Fredly via The Epoch Times

    Header featured image (edited) credit: Border/Mayorkas/Fox News article Tease

    Emphasis added by (TLB)

    ••••

    ••••

    Stay tuned tuned…



    Source

  • Car stolen from Florala involved in Walton County, Florida pursuit

    Car stolen from Florala involved in Walton County, Florida pursuit

    Published 11:00 am Sunday, August 4, 2024

    A vehicle that was stolen from a home in Florala was involved in a pursuit earlier this week in Walton County, Florida.

    Rachel Lynn Travis

    The pursuit began when a FLOCK security camera in Okaloosa County, Florida captured the stolen vehicle’s license plate, alerting law enforcement. Walton County deputies began to pursue the vehicle at the Clyde B. Wells Bridge, in the southbound lane, and concluded on the south side of Hwy. 98, near J.D. Miller Rd. after a successful pit maneuvre.

    Rachel Lynn Travis, 31, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida was apprehended following the pursuit and transported to the Walton County Jail.

    Travis faces multiple felony and misdemeanor counts, including dealing in stolen property. Bond was set at $7,500.

    Source

  • Revolutionizing Personal Injury Cases with ORGO On Demand” – The US Times

    In the world of car accidents, two primary concerns arise when individuals contact their insurance company or attorney: getting their car fixed and getting their life back on track immediately. Thanks to Aaron Ford’s innovative company, ORGO On Demand, these individuals now have the opportunity to have their demands truly heard and addressed.

    One of the longstanding challenges in the legal industry has been the rejection of potential clients who didn’t fit the attorneys’ “avatar” or ideal client profile. Countless individuals have been turned away, left to navigate the complex process on their own. Aaron Ford recognized this issue and set out to change the game.

    ORGO On Demand is revolutionizing the way personal injury attorneys approach their clients’ needs. By managing the property damage portion of the cases, ORGO ensures that both the car repairs and the clients’ lives are swiftly restored. This comprehensive service bridges the gap between attorneys and their clients, providing a much-needed solution to a longstanding problem.

    Not only does ORGO benefit clients, but it also assists insurance companies and attorneys alike. Insurance companies often face frustration and challenges due to clients who lack understanding of the claims process, leading to low-quality outcomes and potential strain on the mental health of their employees. ORGO steps in to monetize the seemingly unmonetizable, providing a high-quality experience for all parties involved.

    With ORGO On Demand, Aaron Ford has created a platform that addresses the immediate concerns of car accident victims, provides invaluable support to attorneys, and alleviates the burden on insurance companies. By delivering a truly high-quality experience, ORGO is transforming the legal landscape and ensuring that all individuals involved in a personal injury case can access the justice they deserve.

    Aaron Ford’s visionary approach has shattered the barriers of the legal industry, bringing efficiency, empathy, and fairness to all stakeholders. As ORGO On Demand continues to grow, its impact on the legal profession will be felt for years to come.

    Source

  • Big Pharma – How much power do drug companies have? (Documentary) | The Liberty Beacon


    Big Pharma – How much power do drug companies have?

    21WIRE

    Our weekly documentary film is curated by the editorial team at 21WIRE.

    Big Pharma has demonstrated that it can call the shots on many government policies. This documentary is the result of more than a year of research and brings together patients, whistleblowers, lawyers, doctors and politicians, as well as representatives of the industry.

    Large laboratories are accused of concealing or downplaying research results to maintain their monopolies. Take the manufacturer Sanofi, whose epilepsy drug Depakine triggered a scandal throughout Europe. In the US, Johnson & Johnson has had to stand trial for driving millions of people into opioid addiction. And Novartis is one of several companies now facing huge fines over improper practices in the treatment of macular degeneration, an eye disease.

    The pharmaceutical industry gets support from influential doctors. But only one-fifth of German doctors declare what they receive from drug companies. As the world battles the Coronavirus pandemic, this documentary also looks at the lobbying efforts of manufacturer Gilead, as it seeks approval for a promising drug developed largely with public money. Every company is vying to find the next miracle treatment that will help it succeed against the competition…

    Run time: 1:36 mins
    Written by Luc Hermann and Claire Lasko
    Production: Arte France

    _________

    (TLB) published this documentary from 21WIRE

    SEE MORE SUNDAY SCREENINGS HERE

    READ MORE NEWS ABOUT BIG PHARMA AT: 21st Century Wire Big Pharma Files

    SUPPORT OUR INDEPENDENT MEDIA PLATFORM – BECOME A MEMBER @21WIRE.TV

    Header featured image (edited) credit: 21WIRE org.post tease

    Emphasis and editing at (TLB)

    ••••

    ••••

    Stay tuned tuned…

    ••••

    The Liberty Beacon Project is now expanding at a near exponential rate, and for this we are grateful and excited! But we must also be practical. For 7 years we have not asked for any donations, and have built this project with our own funds as we grew. We are now experiencing ever increasing growing pains due to the large number of websites and projects we represent. So we have just installed donation buttons on our websites and ask that you consider this when you visit them. Nothing is too small. We thank you for all your support and your considerations … (TLB)

    ••••

    Comment Policy: As a privately owned web site, we reserve the right to remove comments that contain spam, advertising, vulgarity, threats of violence, racism, or personal/abusive attacks on other users. This also applies to trolling, the use of more than one alias, or just intentional mischief. Enforcement of this policy is at the discretion of this websites administrators. Repeat offenders may be blocked or permanently banned without prior warning.

    ••••

    Disclaimer: TLB websites contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available to our readers under the provisions of “fair use” in an effort to advance a better understanding of political, health, economic and social issues. The material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving it for research and educational purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material for purposes other than “fair use” you must request permission from the copyright owner.

    ••••

    Disclaimer: The information and opinions shared are for informational purposes only including, but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material are not intended as medical advice or instruction. Nothing mentioned is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.



    Source

  • COLUMN: Quadriplegic answers question why people suffer

    COLUMN: Quadriplegic answers question why people suffer

    Published 7:30 am Sunday, August 4, 2024

    Joni Eareckson Tada celebrates her 74th birthday this year. That birthday marked a milestone, but not just because of her age. Joni has lived 57 of those 74 years confined to a wheelchair.

    In 1967, Joni dove into shallow water in the Chesapeake Bay. In seconds, her life changed from athletic teenager to quadriplegic. She was paralyzed from her shoulders down, due to a broken neck. Back then, Joni says, doctors thought it impossible for a quadriplegic to reach age 70.

    But in spite of her tragic circumstances, she has overcome bitterness, endured suffering, and still found meaning in life. In 1976, Joni wrote about her life-changing experience in an autobiography that was retold in a movie called “Joni,” released in 1980. She became a talented artist, painting beautiful drawings by holding a small paintbrush in her mouth.

    Joni Eareckson Tada now lives in California and leads a ministry for people with disabilities and their families. Through her ministry, Joni & Friends, some 10,000 wheelchairs are collected every year and distributed in over 86 countries. Week-long Family Retreats are held for those who live with disability.

    She released a video on her birthday that I have watched numerous times. Her words eloquently answer the question of why people suffer. And, since I enjoy photography, I could literally picture her explanation and wanted to share her words with you.

    “I am living well. I’m living joyfully. Yes, a broken neck is a tragedy, but God has the capacity, get this, to look at our suffering through a narrow lens and a wide angle one. When God looks at a painful event through a narrow lens, like my broken neck, He sees the tragedy for what it is and He is deeply grieved…God felt the sting in his chest when I dove into shallow water and crunched my neck and severed my spinal cord.

    “But when God looked at it through his wide-angle lens, He saw the tragedy in relation to everything leading up to it, as well as flowing out of it. He saw Joni and Friends…. He saw Family Retreats and He saw ‘Wheels for the World’…. He saw hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities, and their families, coming to Jesus Christ.

    “He saw this amazing mosaic stretching into eternity. And friend, it’s this mosaic with all its parts, both good and evil, which brings God utter delight. And so… I’m saying NO to a narrow view of my life…I’m not gonna go down that dark grim path. And I encourage you to do the same.”

    Joni asks us to say, “Jesus, give me faith to believe’ in your wide-angle view of the difficult things ‘that happen in my life.’ Give me your perspective so I can delight in the beautiful mosaic that one day I’m gonna understand.”

    Joni’s message reminded me of the description of Jesus, who understands “the feeling of our infirmities” (Hebrews 4:15). She once said, “There’s no inherent goodness in my spinal cord injury; it is an awful thing, but a wonderful, miracle-making God can take something awful in a life and pronounce it good through the application of His grace.”

    — Jan White has compiled a collection of her columns in her book, “Everyday Faith for Daily Life.”

    Source