Never give up! Published March 19, 2013 By Chaplain (Maj.) Olga Westfall 94th Airlift Wing Chaplain DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Did you know the saying "throw in the towel" originated in boxing when a trainer would concede defeat for his losing boxer by throwing a towel into the ring? When we go through mental, spiritual, social and physical pain in the way of loss of income, declining health, failed relationships, spiritual isolation and other issues, we might be under pressure of quitting and giving up. Life can be difficult at times, but let me encourage you to never give up. Not giving up means one creates an awareness about themselves and their surroundings that highlights alternatives to giving up. It means there is always something to be learned from each experience, and hope in spite of difficulties in life. I remember when God called me to ministry 22 years ago and my own church in Ukraine did not even believe in having women in the ministry. When I applied for a Master of Divinity in a seminary in the U.S., while still in Ukraine, people told me it was an impossible dream. With no support other than the assurance of God's Will, He made it possible and provided me opportunities to join the military and Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy. Not giving up is about believing in yourself, in others, and in something greater than you. Believing in yourself can be difficult at times, with negativism from family, friends and the enemy, but it's important you respond positively and never give up. When last did you reach across and offer a helping hand to someone in need? The person you helped today could be the person who helps you or someone else tomorrow. Never giving up is an understanding that we don't have all the answers to the questions of setbacks, defeats and life generally not unfolding as we planned. However, it is always being hopeful that as we believe in ourselves, in others, "lifting up our eyes to the hills where our help comes from" (Psalms 121:1). Look inwardly, look outwardly, look upward and never give up!
