According to Fred Smith (2)

‘Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.’ 1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV

Here are some more Scriptures Brenda Smith learned from her dad: ‘…a real friend will be more loyal than a brother…’ (Proverbs 18:24 NCV) When Fred was initially hospitalised, a host of well-wishers came by to visit, but eventually dropped off when they didn’t know what to say. It was friends who stood by them over the long haul who sustained them. ‘The Lord sees the good people and listens to their prayers.’ (Psalm 34:15 NCV) The Psalmist said, ‘I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry…He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.’ (Psalm 40:1-2 NIV) Fred Smith said, ‘Many nights I lay awake unable to move or sleep, but…when I was tempted to lose hope, prayer renewed my strength.’ A psychiatrist who interviewed aspiring astronauts reported that, faced with total isolation, many candidates became frustrated, whereas those who knew how to pray and sense God’s presence had fewer problems. Prayer works when all else fails-but don’t wait till things reach that stage. ‘When you are old…I will take care of you…’ (Isaiah 46:4 NCV) Someone said, ‘Old age ain’t for sissies.’ While you are getting older physically, you don’t have to get old in your outlook. We live in a ‘disposable’ culture that dismisses senior citizens as set in their ways and out of touch. Fred Smith proved otherwise. He demonstrated that while aging isn’t convenient or comfortable, it can be productive. By focusing on the ‘can do’s’ instead of the ‘used to do’s’, you not only follow the example of Christ, you also create a blueprint for the next generation.