
There are no prerequisites to success. Success is not measured by what you have, what you own, or the amount of approval you get. Success is measured by the ability to remain happy in life even when circumstances are not so bright. ~ Zina Hermez
I’m thankful for many things. My life has not turned out exactly how I expected it to, but in many ways it’s far better than I ever imagined it could be. I always knew I had something significant to do. I couldn’t come here and do nothing. I feel that I’m now fulfilling that desire through my writing. I’ve learned that success in life is not measured by what you have, or who surrounds you. The favor of others is not a prerequisite to being happy. I’m very lonely at times, but I’ve learned that a prerequisite to happiness is taking all of the love that God has given you, and accepting it. Bask in it. And with a hopeful spirit, look ahead at tomorrow. There are joyful opportunities awaiting you. You’ll see.
About Zina
Zina Hermez authored the book Not Without God: A Story of Survival and created the Spinal Cord Injury Solutions! online website. Zina works as an English Language Instructor, and has been an educator for nearly fifteen years. Her thousands of students have been from many parts of the world, and she’s worked with all ages.
Zina writes articles on faith and overcoming disability, and her stories have been featured in Christianity Today, Spinal Cord Injury Zone, SCI Access, newsletters, and medical journals among many other various publications. To learn more about Zina visit http://zinahermez.com.
Zina, that is a beautiful quote and ever so spot on the absolute truth.
When my faith is strongest, when I really feel God’s presence surrounding my entire body (like an invisible energy field),are the times when I am at true peace. I am happy now in a more genuine, authentic, fulfilling way vs my pre-SCI days of the relentless pursuit of material things.I was trying to fill the void God leaves empty for all of us with all the wrong things.
When at my darkest hour, facing life as broken and bed bound I rededicated my life to Jesus Christ. I received instant freedom from the desire to attain material things. What a gift! We downsized our house, my wife refuses to shop anywhere but Goodwill, and more, Now the void is filled with the only thing that is meant for that purpose, God’s love. What a relief. What peaceful fulfillment, What happiness!
ZH you nailed it today!
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Thank you so much Pete! I’m glad you were touched by this message. I understand your happiness when you dedicated your life to Jesus, and it is wonderful that you let go of your “relentless pursuit of material things.” What a beautiful post, thank you for your honesty and thank you for sharing it!
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