If you could be any... animal?

If you could be any animal, which would you be? Remember that game? Maybe there's more to it.

Ever feel like you're prey, being stalked for the great kill by circumstances of life?

Stefan Swanepoel, born in the Serengeti (Kenya, Africa), has written a compelling life/business fable called "Surviving your Serengeti". While this was an easy read, application of the skills discussed will help one to navigate the Serengeti of life. Swanepoel takes visitors to his homeland on a journey, observing seven significant animals. He says that 'while the challenges faced by those that live and die on the Serengeti plains are certainly in a different realm than ours, the seven survival skills that the animals use to overcome their harsh conditions can help us rise above our own adversities and live a better life.' Readers learn about the endurance of the wildebeest, strategies of the lion, the enterprising crocodile, the gracious giraffe, the efficiency of the cheetah, the risk-taking of the mongoose, and the communication skills of the elephant. Fable aside, what we learn about these animals helps us see the beauty in God's creation and design. We learn very interesting facts about each.

After studying the seven animals and their unique survival skills, the question is posed "which animal are you?" What is your unique survival skill? It's the "one you would default to if you were one of the animals living here on the savannahs of the Serengeti."

Me? I'm an elephant. I love to make sure that all are moving in sync through great communication.

Having trouble knowing which animal you are? There is a quick quiz at www.WhatAnimalAmI.com.

Average Joe or G.I. Joe?

Ever feel like just a John Doe, or Jane Doe? Like just an average Joe?

The good news is that God chooses and uses the average Joe and converts them into a G.I. Joe when they least suspect it. The catch? They must be found ready and willing... not necessarily able. Much like reading through Hebrews 11 which reveals how many men (and women) were key parts of God's story simply because of their availability, their place in time, and their faith; Meeder uses exampls from the Bible as well as real-life current stories of family and friends to show how God can use us. His encouragement is that we not allow ourselves to be frustrated by the normal and the mundane, but instead to realize it is part of who we are in God's calling. We should be looking for those we can mentor, whether it be our children or a co-worker, a friend, and even has advice for those perhaps too young still to feel they can be a mentor...

"And don't think you have to somehow be a perfect man of God! No, just be an honest, grateful, growing man of God -- still in process. On the other hand, if you are younger, full of promise, and lacking gray hair, then listen up: find a mentor.... walking shoulder to shoulder with men of age and faith brings balance to imbalance, peace from chaos, and wisdom out of foolishness." Meeder is vulnerable and honest in his writings from the heart, sharing much he has learned in the journey and what God has shared with him. His work will be a blessing to your life.