MEMORIAM TO MY FRIEND

In a world where physical limitations can feel like insurmountable barriers, sometimes the smallest creatures offer the greatest lessons. This is the story of my friend, whose life was forever changed by an unlikely teacher. Because of a tiny ant, he was inspired by an encounter, which led him to dream of writing a book titled "The Ant That Took Away My Can't," a testament to turning an "I can't" into "I can" through the power of the mind. Though he passed before completing it, his journey remains a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity.

My friend was struck by a severe illness a few decades ago that ravaged his body, leaving him unable to work or perform the physical tasks he once took for granted. Confined and frustrated, he felt trapped in a life of limitations. But one ordinary day, while sitting outside, he witnessed something that was an ordinary event that turned into something extraordinary. An ant, no larger than a speck, was carrying a massive leaf, far bigger than itself. As it approached a wide crack in the sidewalk, what could have been an impossible obstacle became a bridge. The ant cleverly used the leaf to span the gap, crossing over with determination and ingenuity.

In that moment, a profound realization came to Tim. If this tiny insect could adapt and overcome by using what it had, why couldn't he? His body might be failing, but his mind was sharp and alive. The ant didn't just carry a leaf when it picked up the make-shift bridge. It carried away Tim's "can't." It taught him that true strength lies in resourcefulness and mental fortitude. Proverbs 6:6 "Go to the ant...consider her ways and be wise."

From then on, Tim shifted his focus from what he had lost to what he could build.

Inspired by this moment of insight, my friend embarked on an academic odyssey. Unable to rely on physical labor, he poured his energy into education. He earned a bachelor's degree in psychology, exploring the intricacies of the human mind and behavior. Not stopping there, he pursued another bachelor's in addiction studies, driven by a desire to help others overcome their own internal battles.

His passion grew, leading him to a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). This equipped him with the skills to support families navigating crises, much like the one he had faced. He became licensed as a therapist in two states, turning his personal struggles into professional expertise. At the time of his passing, he was diligently working toward his doctorate at Liberty University, a final step in a remarkable ascent. He was not earning degrees to point to how intelligent he was. Rather, he was honing his God given tools to better enable himself to minister to the needs of others.

Through it all, he embodied the ant's lesson: adapt, persist, and use what you have. His achievements weren't just degrees on a wall; they were lifelines extended to others, proving that limitations are often illusions of the mind.

This story reminds us that inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. The ant didn't have super strength or wings. It had creativity and resolve. In a society that often equates worth with physical ability, my friend's life challenges us to redefine success. Whether you're dealing with illness, setbacks, or self-doubt, ask yourself: What "leaf" can I use to bridge my gaps? How can I harness my mind to transcend my circumstances?

Though the book "The Ant That Took Away My Can't" remains unwritten, its spirit lives on in this retelling. My friend's legacy is a call to action. Embrace your inner ant, shed your "can't," and build the bridges that lead to possibility.

Rest in peace, my friend. Your story continues to inspire.