A few weeks ago before the release of “When The Rain” I posted a video asking all of you if you or anyone you know have ever did something special to encourage someone who is having a tough time either physically or emotionally?

I received a few really great responses (thank you all) but one inspiring story really stood out.  It was from friend and fan Scott Hoskins. His story is both very personal and very instructive. With his permission I am sharing it with you.

Scott’s Story

Here is a photo video of last years tornado in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. At the time I was homeless (yes, that is correct). I was homeless for almost two years. I started attending Church with a friend and was asked if I wanted to go on a Mission trip to Alabama. Not working and feeling empty and lost, I said yes.

The overwhelming disaster that I found when we reached our destination was as if it where out of a movie. Just unbelievable destruction everywhere we turned. At the time I was feeling sorry for myself. I had no job, no home, nothing. My self worth was at an all time low.

Once I grasped that this trip was  not about me and my situation, I realized that there where people in this city that had less than I did. They only had the dirt that was once their yard.

Through the grace of God and believers in me, my life was changed forever. The friendships that were formed from that week  have blossomed into an everlasting memory. Not only was I able to help others rebuild their lives, but they also helped me to rebuild mine.

Now I see that I am some one important in the lives of others.  My self worth is at an all time high because of the positive people that God has brought into my life. Never again will I loathe or feel sorry for myself. There is always someone who has it worse than I do.

By The Way

Scott told me that he has found a passion for writing and hopes to start a blog soon. I don’t know about you but after reading the above I am anxious to read more.

Since I love it when people discover their life’s passion (hell, we should celebrate it like we do for weddings or birthdays), I will be sure to let you know when he gets it up and running so we can help him spread the word.

Do You Have A Story To Share?

Great stories like this can make you laugh, make you cry, inspire you and even change your life.  So, thinking that we need all of them we can get, I would really love to share more great stories on this blog. Feel free to share your own stories either in the comments below or via email.

 Photo Credit:  photo credit: h.koppdelaney