For me when I see, hear or even say the number six it has a greater significance to how I feel and to whom it represents. Alex Nieves as we all know is not only a remarkable person, but an aspiring athlete. I have had the honor of knowing Alex and the Nieves family for a good number of years and all I can say is that every single member of this family, holds a special place in my heart especially Alex. Alex has been battling Cancer since this past December.
He has certainly had his rough spots and while many of us read his updates which include: the good, bad and even the ugly, written by his wonderful mother, Mo Nieves (ROCK THE ORANGE)-he has also had some positive moments throughout his battle. Certain moments that no one can truly capture, by the emotions he may feel, his family nor the people who support him. One moment and what will possibly be an ever-lasting memory for him is the Salisbury Lacrosse team for their big National Championship win. I have seen a number of pictures from this game and I can honestly say I end up with tears each time, it’s by far the most motivational and real moment in someone’s life; it goes beyond the definition of beauty and gives off inspiration to everyone who sees them, or knows any of the players. I applaud each and every one of you for your hard work, constant support and the brotherhood you constantly give each other-congratulations on such an amazing achievement.
I was thinking about something earlier today and that was how many people take their life for granted. If it’s just saying “I hate my life because I don't have this or that” or in other words “FML” –Which is one saying I truly hate hearing, or even reading, but what I don’t understand is how they can’t realize what they do have, and that others might be going through something worse. It seems that people fuss and fight over some of the most stupid things in life, and miss out on the bigger picture of “hey I’m healthy, or oh yeah I’m breathing, have a roof over my head, and aren’t starving like some people are.” Think about it, how many people do you know, that are constantly negative or are even so consumed in buying things that they don't need through competition with others? Where do you think that money could go towards? Maybe to a good cause, to support efforts in finding a cure for any disease, or forming a project with Habitat for Humanity. Something, anything that is beneficial for others.
Alex is a phenomenal person, if it’s for his love with lacrosse, his family or simply kicking cancer in the ass, he is the one person that can go beyond what people expect. It’s very obvious that he has affected so many people’s lives even before he was diagnosed and this young man has made a difference and will continue too. With his battle, his strength and the ability he has to move forward is what adds onto who he is and how he shapes our lives in every aspect. Alex, has painted a very clear picture of that for myself and many other people just by being grateful for another day even though he’s fighting for his life-he’s STILL kicking ass while doing it.
So THANK YOU, Alex for being part of my life and showing me that if you believe with your heart and with pure strength anything is possible. No words can begin to describe how proud I am of you, nor how much of an impact you truly make on my life. Stay strong! I give my highest respects, support and love as you continue your fight.
"The wings of hope carry us, soaring high above the driving winds of life." ~Ana Jacob
I think those Nieves are the type of people we ALL consider family, and if ANYONE can get through this, it is them with YOUR prayers (because let's face it - God's got a pager for when you pray to him :-))
ReplyDeleteI loved the thought with people taking their blessings for granted. I remember I was in New York City shopping at some gift store and there was a store guard standing next to me - an African dressed in his best uniform. He was smiling non-stop at me so I of course had to smile back and talk to him. His African accent was so thick but I hung on to every word. He raved about the city and how much he loved it. He praised America for the opportunity it gave him and how blessed it made him feel. And then, unexpectedly, he took my chin in his hand and asked with such light behind his eyes, "Are you a Christian?"
I said "Yes, sir, I am," with a smile of my own. You would have thought I had told him he was getting a million dollar house. It meant the world to him and he grinned ear to ear. And I'm thinking to myself....he is working as a guard in the place I am merely browsing in for fun. He is not working a New York job (WALL STREET). But he is happy.
Where can we find that happiness? It's somewhere reachable to all of us, and YOU help so many people find it! Cause let's face it again - sometimes we're bumbling and blind, and need a little help. Imagine what we COULD see if we only looked!! :-)
Love you Bets!!
- Shea