Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Our Story: Hope

Have you ever met someone that motivates and inspires you? Someone who stays positive and keeps going when things get rough? Many times in our lives we are surrounded by negative people with lackadaisical attitudes. They lack hope. They have forgotten how to dream. It is not often that we find a person who shows us that a dream is more than just wishful thinking. His or her goodness and courage makes our doubts and worries seem small, causing us to reflect on our own weakness. 

I will be the first to admit that when faced with challenges, it is hard to find the motivation to focus on the positive. Even when everything is good, my mind turns towards worry and pessimism. But, my husband has taught me that worry is a misuse of my imagination. I have watched him triumph over life’s struggles again and again. The other day he said to me, “I don’t have much left, but I have will, hope, and desire.”

In hearing my husband dream about wanting to move to the country, it was very easy for me to shoot down his ideas. At times I found myself dismissing them or not truly listening. Many times I would catch myself stealing his hope. He would come at me with such detail and eagerness: “I can’t wait to live in the country. I want horses and chickens. I can’t wait to fish and hunt on my own property. I want lots of land where I can build a legacy for my children and grandchildren. I can’t wait!” My mind always turned to how much I had to do for school the next day. How would we sell our under-water home? How could I leave my job? How could his back possibly handle all that work?

Since arriving in Kentucky, I’ve watched a number of movies about horses. I recently watched Seabiscuit. I was moved by the theme. It’s about a horse who, against the odds, shows his winning abilities and captures the imagination of all those wanting to believe in a dream. While the horse came from noted lineage, he was deemed hopeless. He was mistreated and written off due to numerous injuries. It wasn’t until someone believed in him that he rose from troubled times to achieve success. One of my favorite lines from the movie captures it all: “You don’t throw a whole life away just ‘cause it’s banged up a little bit.”



Within a month's time, I have watched James accomplish and fulfill many of his dreams. I am blessed to have this remarkable man in my life. He has taught me to stay positive and keep dreaming. Doubt, pessimism, and adversity will undermine even the strongest of wills. He has taught me that hope is all we have. I pray that you have someone in your life that inspires you and fills you with hope. 

8 comments:

Karyn said...

What a beautiful story! Your husband is such an inspiration! Thank you for sharing such a positive and uplifting story! So nice to see you are both enjoying your beautiful new home! Sending prayers for continue healing and health for your husband!

Mark Thomas said...

What an awesome adventure you are on! It sounds like everything is going well, and I expect to hear more. Your last two posts have been about your husband and how much he is thriving and living his dreams. What are you up to? Are you still in education or are you just watching horse movies?

Alicia Lochridge said...

Mr. T!!!!!! How I've missed your wit and sass!! ;) I've definitely only been watching horse movies! J/K! One of my next posts is going to be about my job hunt here in Kentucky! I've got lots of applications out and been on a couple interviews...but, it's quite a different process here. Stay tuned...and check out your blog on my blog list.

Anonymous said...

So glad to hear you are doing well! How was the Kentucky Derby? Miss you! - Paige Karetny

Alicia Lochridge said...

@Paige-It's great to hear from you, as well! No Kentucky Derby this year. But, it's definitely on my list for next year. So many fun things to explore on this side of the United States. Keep in touch!!

Anonymous said...

** Alittlesong**
to the tune of Friends in Low Places -Garth Brooks

Blame it all on your roots, that Vegas won't suit
so you moved right on out of here
The first one to go; because no grass could you mow
so we all watched your quick fading rear

There was lots of surprise but no fear in your eyes
When you took your flask and went
then you toasted us said
"Honey load up the bus"
but you'll never hear me complain

cuz now I have a friend in a low place
where the whiskey is warm
and the coffee will chase your fatigue away
so I guess I'll be okay

I'm not big on humidity
but one day I'll slip on down to the derby
Oh Iv'e got a friend in a looooow place

*******************************************

Okay, I will probably never go to the Kentucky Derby, but I might just come out to run in the low elevation (it's easier to breathe).......oh wait, that would mean I have to start running again. Nevermind, how about I just visit some time for the whiskey and crazy good coffee you drink.

Miss me. (That is an imperative sentence, not interrogative.)

Cifelli

Libby said...

It's always inspiring to read about true love stories :) So glad you were able to do this for him, I'm sure you're a source of strength and hope for him as well :)
☼Libby
First Grade Dual

Alicia Lochridge said...

Cifelli!! You're too cute! Hope you're recovering from your injury. When can you start running again? You'll definitely have to visit Kentucky! We love it. Keep in touch.

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