Lift the Holiday Spirit for Those in the LGBT Community This Year!

Do you know someone in the LGBT community that is struggling with family issues right now? Right now during the holiday season it's easy to reach out to others and it's easy to show love. When that holiday spirit goes away, where does it leave you?

I was reflecting on the struggles of many friends I have that have come forward to say they are gay, and yet their families do not accept them or welcome them home during the holidays. What kind of world are we living in?

I began to realize how much I still don't understand regardless of the number of friends I have in the LGBT community, what they feel when others are so close to their family and enjoy holiday traditions. It seems that no one would have to go without a place to go for Thanksgiving or Christmas, but I find out that this just isn't true.

There are so many left without a home to welcome them at this time of year, and probably almost any time of year they don't feel the love and acceptance of even their parents. One of the greatest pains I've ever experienced is the lack of feeling of love from a parent, whether it was through an argument or other issue that came up.

So, how can we fix it? I don't know that we can fix it, but I do believe that we can spend more time and energy reaching out to others less fortunate, meaning even those that have income but those without family to share holidays with.

The LGBT community has been experiencing ups and downs for years, but the focus right now isn't rights, licenses, jobs, or anything else. This is about people. It's time that we STOP separating people upon their gender, sexual orientation, and by their incomes.

What if we just stopped looking at people differently just because they aren't like us? Why can't we just strive to share what we have with others no matter who they are or where they come from? It seems to me that this should be fairly simple, but it's a mystery as to how there are still so many folks left out because they are lesbian or gay, or otherwise.

One organization, Your Holiday Mom, has been receiving letters and phone calls since 2011. The idea behind this was to welcome those that are without family during this time of year. It's a great thing for the LGBT community, and so we thought we would share it and what they do.

This virtual holiday welcome has spread joy to so many, and continues to do so. Loving moms are opening up their hearts to adult children from the community and saying, hey, we love you and wish you a wonderful holiday season. Just the idea that someone cares enough to act as a mother would to them is touching and nothing short of amazing.

Where is the love folks? What have we been doing all of this time that we have been here on this Earth and NOT loving all people? This holiday season, we are asking you to not judge, but open your hearts and homes to those from the "LGBT community" that are without loved ones to share their holiday season with.

Inspiration from Autistic Twins in NYC Marathon

If you need a little inspiration, you won't have to look much further than Alex and Jamie Schneider, the autistic twins that ran in the NYC marathon.

Human beings have a great way of putting limitations on their own life, and if you have been looking for a glimpse of hope, then this story is what you need to read. The marathon isn't just about the twin brothers, but its a family affair.

These twins have been running from the time they were young, and it's been a great way for them to connect with their parents. These parents aren't disappointed at all, but rather proud that their sons are running this marathon despite the odds.

Have you ever experienced the birth of a child that doctors said wouldn't do much in life? Was your child limited by what doctors had to say about their physical well-being?

The twin's mother say that they are non-verbal most of the time, however, this was the one way that they were able to connect with them when they loved to be chased and chase their dad when they were little. Something so simple turned into a way for the twins to interact and connect with their parents despite their autism.

This story has brought inspiration to millions, and was aired on Good Morning America the morning of the NYC marathon. It was also made known that their was a club that has volunteers that offer to run with individuals with disabilities. What a great organization, and as you can imagine this organization is much loved by the Schneider family.

Did this story give you some inspiration as well? Have you put limits on yourself because of what others say or do to you? Do you allow the opinions of others to rule your actions in this life? It's time to be courageous!

No matter what you might be facing today, just watch this video of the Schneider twins, and be sure to share this with others too. You won't be disappointed, and you may crack a smile! Please check back often for more inspiration from Courageous Life, and if you would love to follow what we are doing to help others, you can connect with us on Facebook HERE!

PS-Want to share your courage and motivation with others? Be sure to stop by our website and check out all of the great t-shirts, hats, and decals we offer for men, women, and children when you click HERE!

Overcoming Cancer – The Inspirational Story of Karen Long

Karen Long inspires others to never stop fighting.

When faced with the devastating news of being diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen Long had two options: give in to the disease or fight to beat it. For the mother of two, the thought of having her kids grow up without a mother was unbearable. So the only option that mattered to Karen would be that she would fight the long and uphill battle against cancer.

In an unusual series of events, Karen goes into remission from cancer for 5 years only to find out that the cancer had returned in stage 4. With the help of prayer, family support and the support of the Orlando Police Department Karen was able to remain optimistic and continue to fight the battle with cancer.  

Courageous Life documents Karen’s fight against cancer and the story of hope for many.  Special thanks to everyone who helped put this video together.

Help Karen and Courageous Life raise money to fight against cancer by purchasing one of our Courageous Life products. Courageous Life will donate a portion of every sale on merchandise to Libby’s Legacy. The goal is to spread inspirational messages across the globe and help people who are having a hard time with their own circumstances.

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