Oliver North (Marine Colonel, Author) tells a story of being asked to serve as a referee for the Navy boxing championships along with Rocky Marciano, the former World Heavyweight Champ. One fight in particular stood out in Oliver's head. The bantam weight 135-pound bout saw the same guy get knocked down each of the three rounds but would every time he got back up and fought.

North noticed that Rocky gave each round to the person who was knocked down while he and the other judge gave each to the one who knocked him down. The fight finished in a split decision the loser being the one knocked down.

Following the fights, while they were cleaning up, North asked the Champ why he picked who he did in the bantam weight. Marciano answered, "What you've got to understand, son, is you don't give the fight to the guy who knocked him down, you give the fight to the guy who had the guts to get back up and keep on fighting."

Life will knock you down but keep getting up and you will win!!!

Sunday we were challenged with giving. ILikeGiving.com is a movement that is inspiring people to be give creatively, compassionately and frequently.
 
We have no shortage of opportunities to help others. We only must be aware and willing. I have already received a number of stories of how people in NORTHchurch were encouraged Sunday and how they have responded to the challenge...
 
Here is my story:
 
Tyrone, age of mid-twenties, was walking in front of NORTH at 9 pm last night. I asked if he wanted a ride and he excepted. I drove him to Wal-Mart. He walks 3 1/2 miles one way every day to work, besides the other places he needs to get to.
 
I asked if he had a car. He has one but it has been broken down. He said he is saving his money from Sonic to get it repaired.
 
I asked if he would like a bike to help with his transportation while his car is not working. A BIG smile came on his face. He said, "I sure would."
 
Bike shopping...
 
I like bike.