the other day I had a bit of a breakdown – the straw that broke the camel’s back, you might say. and I was really planning to do a follow-up post because I know it’s not just me – as most of those of you who commented have assured me

today Brittany of Bee Littlequeen, member of Team Playground, is here to talk a bit more about the pain and heartache that we all have in common. she’s also sharing a really awesome dream she has! check out this carzy-adorable picture she took

I think part of my purpose being in this life is to help other people by encouraging them and offering love and hope. I was born with SMA [spinal muscle atrophy] which is a progressive neuromuscular  disease. I was born without an important muscle protein which causes all the muscles of my body to weaken. Thankfully, it’s been a slow progression. I’ve had to go through many obstacles including not being able to stand and walk anymore, to using  an electric wheelchair user and then becoming ventilator dependent. I’ve also overcome depression. Because of my life’s path so far, I think I can speak from experience and understand where others are coming from, even though they don’t have the same physical problems as me: pain is pain. heartache is heartache. These emotions are universal, no matter where you are in the world. We are in this life together. I don’t think we were meant to live life alone. A small dream I have is to become a motivational speaker. I can envision myself traveling to different parts of Arizona and perhaps, eventually, venturing to the Southwestern states. I do LOVE road trips! lol. I am not sure if that will ever happen due to mostly finances. A wheelchair accessible van and even one custom made and/or modified for me to be able to drive is costly. Also, being on the ventilator requires that I have someone medically trained with me or around 24/7 for various reasons. I sometimes feel discouraged by this fact and loss of the amount of independence i used to have. I believe that God has a great plan for us and for me as spoken of in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

I know God opens doors for us and just maybe, a door will open that will help me achieve this dream. I want to do what the Lord wants me to do. I want to go where he wants me to go. I am thankful for the internet and for bloggy land as a way for me to connect with others that I would have otherwise not met. I am amazed at the kindness and love that has been to shown to me and to each other.

we pray that God opens those doors for you, Brittany, we’d definitely come hear you speak!

go check out her IRLO Mashup here!

also, if you haven’t seen the first video challenge, made by another member of Team Playground, go check it out for sure!