Impact

Most people would like to make a difference in the world, an impact that will allow them to be remembered in history. Last week I watched a documentary about Steve Jobs and what he did in his life to improve the world.

In my mind, he was one of the modern inventors that had influence in many areas of the technological world. The device I'm using to type this came from his company, Apple computer. It will be interesting to watch the next few decades to see how his influence is used by new inventors and companies he worked with.

I have wondered if I will have the opportunity to make an impact on society that is remembered beyond those around me. This life thus far has already increased the average life-span of quadriplegics, and I hope that I have shown others that having a severe disability does not limit a person's potential or ability to be productive. Beyond that though, I don't know if it is the plans for my life to further help others, I can pray that it is though and that someone may be helped because of it.

While people can have on impact on society, instances around us can also have an impact. A few days ago I returned home from running errands and asked my assistant to take my sweatshirt off. Somehow, the wires for my diaphragm pacemaker were pulled and stopped it working. Despite her best efforts, we couldn't get it working again and I'm now back on the vent 24/7 until I can get it fixed. I spent 25 years on the vent and barely a year off of it, but the last few days of being on it has been an adjustment. Hopefully it won't take long to fix, but that will depend on the next few days.

There are many ways we, or items, can have an influence on someone's life, good or bad. One way I have found, through another friend, is by simply clicking. The Hunger Site is a web site that companies use to help to feed the hungry, simply by clicking. Another site is Free Rice, it helps feed people while teaching vocabulary skills.

Through these examples we can give a small part to help others, but as I listen to Christmas music in the background, I think of bigger impacts. About 6,000 years ago the original humans made a decision that impacted everyone and everything in the universe afterward. Then 2,000 years ago God gave His only son for our sins. As we celebrate Christmas, remember what it celebrates and what was given for us all.