Occupy Yourself

It's really not their fault.  We've pampered and spoiled and created the results we are seeing.  Why wouldn't you expect to just put your foot down and get your way if that's what's worked for you all your life?

Nah.

Every generation it's the same because we are all the same and have the same bents and desires.  We all want what we want for as little as we can get by with. Given a choice we would all choose the easy way.  That's the sin nature within.  That doesn't change.  We can't blame how we are or how they are on anything else.

It's not the case for everyone, however.  A few have managed to overcome the "gimme" attitude.  They are modern day heroes and examples that we need to hold out as those who take responsibility for their own destiny, and rely on God for guidance.

Here are some of the heroes in my life that I think are good examples of those who don't lay their destiny at someone else's feet.

Leah Smith-at 21 is the Program Director at The Little Gym.  Leah has been teaching and coaching gymnastics since she was 15 and loves it.  Leah went to college for a couple of semesters and looked at the debt that was piling up and decided that at this time that it wasn't necessary to have a degree to do the work that she loves doing.  Not that its totally out of the picture but in the work she's doing and loves, a trainer's certificate along with her work experience is more than adequate.  Oh, that and a work ethic that surprises her employers (every one she's ever had), that's not something you can buy or be given by the government.  I see Leah owning her own business before she's much past 30.

Hope Smith-at 22 Hope is going for it!  She has finally gotten her courage up to go for her dream of being a fashion designer.  Working two jobs to support her dream she's entering her first Fashion Show this next season and developing a line to put in local stores.  Hope has been coaching gymnastics since graduation and attended Jamileh Kamaran's School of Fashion Design.  Hope has a keen fashion sense and a desire to succeed that will carry her through the early part of a career that is hard to break in to.  She also has the support of family and close friends to encourage her along the way.

Kyle Pounders-going for a dream of success in the food industry.  After pursuing other career and college paths Kyle has decided to capitalize on his success in the food industry.  Taking the skills that he presently uses for others, Kyle is making the transition to working for himself with Excaliburger.  Excaliburger is an awesome food vendor idea that's bound to work if for no other reason than Kyle's energy and enthusiasm. At some point Kyle can transition his idea to his ultimate dream of a restaurant(s).  Thing is Kyle is smart. He's not expecting a hand out.  Hard work and ingenuity are his resources and he's not expecting to start out with it all handed to him on a silver platter.  He doesn't want a load of debt on the front end.  He's not whining because there isn't someone willing to give him a couple of hundred thousand for a full-service restaurant just because he's got a great idea.  He wouldn't turn it down either though, like I said, Kyle's smart.

Josh Nance-Army Reserve.  Awesome.  One word, awesome.  If you ever needed someone to make you feel safe-it's Josh.  This is the kind of young man you want to be in charge of of the country.  Powerful, kind, thoughtful, prepared, smart.  God give us more Joshes in the world.  This is the kind of guy you want your daughters to marry.  He knows what he wants out of life and is prepared to work and work hard for it.  Self-less.  Other's first.  Good example of what a Godly man looks like.

Erin Nance-Speech Pathology student.  Erin is in her last round of school preparing for a career for which she is going to be totally incredible with.  Her heart for people and caring manner and patient nature are just what will make a perfect therapist for people in need of care.  In the meantime she's active in caring for young people in other ways through her  involvement with her church youth group and other church activities. Erin's not waiting to be in her "career" before she begins the caring.  That's what will set her apart from those who are just "going to school to get a degree".

Jacob Stillman-at 19 Jacob is a good example of someone following God's leading for his future.  Since early days Jacob has been a part of the band scene.  He's been living his dream of being in a band, writing and singing for his fans for many years already.  Jacob has been asking God for guidance for his future, sensing that his path might be different than what he's always had in mind.    Making tough decisions to leave the familiar path of entertaining and looking for other ways to use his God-given gifts as well as his talent, he is considering pursuing the music industry as a business person instead of a performer.  This is going to require college and debt to go to college, but he's determined.  That's what's different.  He knows that in order to do what he wants in the future that there will be a debt to pay.  He's weighed that cost against the future and is going for it.    Jacob isn't expecting a handout.  He knows hard work and isn't afraid of it.  He's allowed his childhood dream to mature. He's also well on his path to adulthood.

Josh Mesker-if Josh ever decides to run for public office you'd just do well to vote for him.  He's my life line to staying informed.  Intelligent, passionate, patient, persuasive, logical.  I want him to be president someday. (Can I spend the night in the White House, Josh?)  Josh has his finger on the pulse of this generation and this world.  He's not afraid to jump in a dialogue with both feet that just intimidates me to no end.  If I want someone to defend my convictions this is the guy.  If you aren't his friend on FaceBook or Twitter, do yourself a favor and add him.  You won't need CNN to be in the know.

There are dozens and dozens of others that I know, all in their twenties that should give each and every one of us hope for the future, for our kids and our grandkids.  God is in control and He will use these young adults for His good will.  They are seeking His guidance and obeying His word.  They are the future and they are here now.  Those occupying tents in cities, demanding hand-outs and bail-outs and the easy way are NOT the majority that they claim.  I know a few of them and their demands are not unexpected, because that's what they've been demanding since they were two.  But these others, the one's who aren't relying on someone else to determine their futures or fulfill their dreams.....these are the ones to watch.....and pray for.

I'll let you know of others as I can. I think you guys should start talking about the heroes in your life too. It's time the good guys got some attention!