Jason lives in one of the remote islands in the Philippines. Their only source of livelihood is abaca farming. They earn about two thousand pesos a year, which is around fifty Australian dollars. Yes, his family tries to survive on a fifty dollar annual budget. Good thing they live near the woods and they could dig camote and pick camote tops.
Jason scavenges the forest for abaca very early in the morning and then gets ready for school. He had to cross three rivers on foot to get there. Jason is working hard to pursue his dreams of finishing college and saving his family from poverty.
Jemima belongs to an average family. His parents were able to support her through high school; however, because colleges are too expensive, she had to work while she is studying. She is a sales lady in a mall, and her enthusiasm at work got her nationwide recognition.
She would dance and sing to customers which is not a part of her job. One day, a patron recorded a video of her while she entertained her customers and it went viral. The clip caught the attention of a prominent local network, and they gave her a scholarship.
Billy is from a well-to-do family. He studied in private schools his whole life. His parents were able to set up a college fund for him, so Billy was able to choose a course he liked. He worked hard and finished college with flying colours. He is now a vice president in a global corporation.
Allan’s family was wealthy. His father was a politician and enjoyed all the luxuries in life. He didn’t take school seriously. He just liked hanging out and playing pick up basketball with his friends.
Political foes killed his father which led to his family’s hardship. They lost all their assets until they were broke. He now drives a tricycle for a living earning four dollars a day. He has a wife and thee kids.
We don’t get the same head start in the race of life. Some would be way ahead from the others, some a few steps behind the starting line, while others are not only far behind, but they’re also carrying weights that drag them down.
Regardless of where we stand, we still need to run the race of life. We could be ahead, but if we don’t run, we won’t succeed. We may be dead last, but if we keep running and don’t quit, there’s a chance that we kill this marathon.
Choose to run your race. God has a plan for you. It may not look like it right now, but if you stick with Jesus, your future will be great! You will soar higher than ever. Spread positivity and promote good vibes!
2 Timothy 4:5-8 New International Version (NIV)
5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. 6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.