Devoted Magazine Issue 25

The power of one, meet Julie Steynberg Thailand, land of smiles and friendships Did South Africans get what they deserve? Does adversity make us stronger? In conversation with Dr Kenneth Meshoe Issue 25

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In this issue Start to make an effort to refrain from negative talk and join groups and organisations focussed on positive change. EDITOR’S NOTE The power of one, meet Get your ducks in a 2 Julie Steynberg Thailand, land row of smiles and friendships PROFILE The power of one 3 Did South Africans get what they deserve? IN CONVERSATION Does adversity make us stronger? 2 Dr Kenneth Meshoe, In conversation with President of the 4 Dr Kenneth Meshoe ACDP Issue 25 TRAVEL WITH A Photo: Statement of Faith; Auckland PURPOSE CREDITS Thailand, land of smiles and MANAGING EDITOR friendships 6 Gerda Potgieter ACTUAL LANGUAGE EDIT Mignionette Fair • Edita Services 4 Did South Africans WEBSITE get what they Tony Hendricks • Storm Tank deserve with their leadership? 8 DESIGN Anna • Creative Diversity INSPIRATION The design of this issue was sponsored by: Does adversity make us stronger? 10 BOOK REVIEW 12 CONTACT DETAILS FOR DEVOTED Turn it around Email: [email protected] Website: www.devotedmag.co.za 6 Content disclaimer “Therefore I tell you, whatever you Devoted is published by Devine Publishers. All rights reserved.While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of information, ask for in prayer, believe that you the managing editor, Devoted and the publisher cannot accept liability of whatever nature arising out or in connection with the contents have received it and it will be yours.” of this magazine. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of any of the Devoted team and remains the sole (Mark 11:24) responsibility of the writers. It was confirmed by our writers and contributors that no part of the written submissions has been copied from either a book or any other source, including the internet, except where such sections are clearly shown as quotes and the sources have been correctly identified within the text or in the list of references. www.devotedmag.co.za 1

Editor’s Note Get your ducks in a row! It has been a long time since our become one of the complainers. It is When you find a person or an sometimes difficult to keep focused organisation that speak to your previous issue because, like many and positive with the high amounts ethical value system and uses the others around us, we are struggling of negativity we are bombarded Bible as moral compass, it provides with challenges that impact on our with - it is a situation of garbage in, opportunities to work together to daily lives and resources. Devoted garbage out. And before we know make an impact. Dr Kenneth Meshoe is distributed digitally now, which it, we become one of the negative (President of the ACDP) honoured makes our distribution much wider talkers who only see the bad things. us to agree to be the patron of our – without the printing costs. This In Conversation platform that we edition launches our new “look and Does any of this sound familiar to re-launched to provide opportunities feel!”. you? Do you know negative people, for concerned people to explore or even worse, are you one of the a range of subjects that impact us The year 2018 was not a good year negative thinkers and talkers? If so, all. The focus of this forum is on for many people, resulting in wide- this issue is for YOU, and also the book positive discussions aimed at seeking scale negative thinking. We are in of Angelique du Toit, Turn it around, solutions. a new year now and with it comes shift your perceptions in a changing new challenges, but we also have the world! Read my review on this I appeal to you and everyone you opportunity for new initiatives and inspirational book in this issue. The know to constructively speak out positive change. It is time to get our inspirational story of André Buckle, against the things that matter, and ducks in a row! who – after a serious accident – did to start making a difference in your not allow for circumstances to get the communities specifically and in our Negative self-talk affects us in best of him, is also a must read. country as a whole. Now is the time devastating ways. The term ‘negative to remind people that we all have a affectivity’ is a “personality variable I agree with Julie Steynberg (page choice to make the right decisions that involves the continuous 3) when she points out that change and to be rewarded for that. We can experience of negative emotions starts with the individual - with each also do the wrong thing or even and a poor self-concept” (Wikipedia). and every one of us! It takes guts to worse, we can do NOTHING. Consequently, it results in a wide make a deliberate decision to stop range of negative emotions that complaining - to stop taking part in Whichever way, we will suffer the include sadness, disgust, anger, negative conversations and to rather consequences. What we choose contempt, guilt, fear, nervousness, ACT by joining people who want to do is up to us, but others suffer anxiety… to see a positive change and who the consequences with us… and want to DO something positive. Even sometimes because of us. Keep this There is a lot going on in our though it is not always easy, I started in mind also during election time this country just now and also much of to make the effort to refrain from year! complaining about the high levels of negative talk and to join groups and corruption, crime, mismanagement organisations focussed on positive Until next time, of people’s hard-earned tax monies, change. Such an organisation is the state capturing, … the list seems African Christian Democratic Party The Devoted team endless. You hear it everywhere (ACDP) with leaders who bring hope and it has become the culture in to South Africans in challenging South Africa to be negative and times. to complain. And, it is so easy to 2 fb.com/devotedmagazine

PEditorr’os Nfioltee ONEThe power of Meet Julie B Steynberg, a formidable woman who is enriching lives and encouraging others to do the same. She is on a journey to bring love to all the people of the world, and she believes in the power of one to make a difference. By starting the process of change within yourself, Julie believes you can encourage others to do the same, and the ripple effect eventually will have the desired impact. I met Julie through the Pretoria Julie Steynberg, branch of the Red Hat Society (The sharing Red Cherries) where she inspired love and the women by sharing real-life appreciation experiences as the guest speaker. by giving a Julie’s inspirational talk with the blue ribbon to Red Hat ladies was spot on, and the Estelle Marx effort she made to interact with of the Red all the ladies was appreciated and Hat Society highlighted her caring spirit. She is (Pretoria) at surely going to leave a legacy of love a year-end and inspiration for others to follow. event. Describing this woman of stature in Difference), a platform that focuses recipient to pass a blue ribbon on one sentence is hard. She has been on empowering others. The main to someone else, spreading love involved in a multitude of projects purpose of this NGO is to help and appreciation further in the throughout her life, most of them spread the message of love and process. Julie had taken on this global focused on impacting lives. Apart appreciation, and they are doing a movement responsibility because from being a radio personality, she great job, one precious soul at a time. she beliefs that the country is ready is well-known as a coach, mentor DMI-SA Difference is part of a global for change. The Blue Ribbon Ceremony and counsellor, with the focus on movement, and through this platform empowers South Africans to honour helping people with their marriages. Julie is slowly but surely making her others and show their appreciation To top it all, she is a motivational mark and changing lives. for the difference they make in and inspirational speaker and writer. society. In 2015 Julie was awarded the title She believes that women are the glue Phenomenal African Woman, just one that keeps society together. In 2008, Julie’s roles as wife, mother and of many accolades bestowed on her she created the Woman 2 Woman over the years. platform to empower women. With grandmother are the most important this platform she wants to inspire Julie also believes that a true women to share their stories; to to her. She has been married to leader sees the greatness in others. empower other women and to be She is therefore well-known for united as a whole. Over the years Francois for 20 years and acknowledging and celebrating the she has met, and acknowledged, greatness in people. She inspires phenomenal women who are paying is a proud mother Read more on others through various platforms it forward to making society a better and loving www.differencemakers.co.za. to become the best version of place for all who live in it in their own grandmother themselves and she lives according and unique way. of six - all to her motto, “Never stop believing in your dream”. For her, it means that to Julie is also the South African girls. With IfjuJyuloielui@ew,dyaiofnfuetrcteaonngceee-mtminaaktieolruhsc.echroo.wznaith live that dream is to live a purposeful ambassador for the Blue Ribbon such a great life, “driven by your thoughts and Ceremony, and so far more than 50 role model in making your thoughts a reality”. million people globally have received their lives, one a blue ribbon. It is expected of the Julie is the founder of Difference can just image Makers Institute SA (DMI-SA how those little granddaughters will one day walk in Julie’s footsteps, making a difference to others, one person at a time! www.devotedmag.co.za 3

In Conversation Dr Kenneth Meshoe, president of the African Christian Democratic Party In Conversation is a platform that encourages people from all walks of life to explore a range of subjects, and opinions are sometimes published in Devoted. Dr Kenneth Meshoe is the patron of this platform, and he shares his opinion on government issues. Christianity and politics “My wife, Lydia, and I started the Hope of Glory Tabernacle in 1988 after years of working at Christ for all Nations under the leadership of Rev Reinhard Bonnke. My ministry took me to various African countries. The devastation and mismanagement I saw under African leadership hurt me dearly, and I turned to God for answers. God called me to politics but at first, I resisted as I did not see myself working in the political environment. After a few years of trying to avoid politics, I decided to honour God in taking up my calling. “I founded the ACDP to be obedient to God to make a difference as a devout Christian in the world of politics. Since then I have been bold in the messages of hope and to remind people that God is in charge. “Statistics have shown that most South Africans regard themselves as Christians. For His people, the Bible should be the moral compass that guides all of us in daily life and the political arena. For me, it is clear that my calling is to bring South Africa back to God. “Failing to uphold Godly basic His full name is Kenneth Raselabe Joseph Meshoe and he has a quality of authenticity. He principles in government stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders. Dr Meshoe, President of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), puts high regard on Biblical values and therefore have serious consequences of stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders. corruption, thieving, loitering, state capturing, killing, raping, and every bad thing else we as South Africans are currently struggling to cope with.” 4 fb.com/devotedmagazine

In Conversation Giving South Africa to God Vision for South Africa Unfortunately, the media is not responsible enough when it comes “The Head of State is the father of the “God calls on ordinary people to do to reporting. Media platforms should nation, and as such, he first must have extraordinary work. Followers of Jesus, not be allowed as platforms for these a relationship with God to get South therefore, have a pivotal role to play in politicians to be used to divide citizens Africa right. A leader who believes in the politics of the day as the salt and and promote destruction. ancestral lordship will not take South the light to positively influence the Africa where it should be but will lead political environment. Even though “The eyes of the entire world are upon the citizens into deeper despair. God I was not in agreement at first with South Africa like never before to see does not share His glory with anyone, God that I should play an active role what is becoming of the rainbow including ancestral spirits. in politics, I later obeyed and now nation of Nelson Mandela. What strongly believe that politics is where they currently see cannot be to our “John 10:10 provides guidance and God wants me to be in this point in advantage, in no way. forms the basis for what I believe time in the history of South Africa. But, South African leaders should do to I also believe that I cannot do it alone Fraud and corruption get things right for the country: They and need the help of other Christians to have to have a godly relationship; fulfil my calling.” “It all starts with the family. The family government should work with God, is the most important unity created and government - in principle - should The issue of race by God, and it is within the family have a relationship with Israel. I have environment that principles like found that the common denominator “It is unfortunate that most political honesty, integrity and love for others of prosperous African countries is that leaders now are playing the race are taught. they have a relationship with Israel. card to win votes, but they divide our people through their actions. “As elected representatives, we This is what the Bible Recently the media exposed a number are called to be servant leaders as instructs us to do, and this is of incidents where political leaders ambassadors of our Lord, Jesus Christ. what I and the ACDP stand exploited situations to put the focus As such we have to serve our people on minor incidents of racism to with honesty and with integrity. I do for, among others”. advance their political careers, rather not compromise in my own life, and in than focusing on the real issues at our work through the ACDP on these hand. This is a dangerous situation principles. Therefore, there is no room that can easily explode in our faces. for corruption or fraud of any kind.” (Photo credit: Annerine Lubbe Photography) Getting to know Dr Kenneth Meshoe as honesty, courage, humility and perseverance. He is an example of integrity and displays loyalty to the people His full name is Kenneth Raselabe Joseph Meshoe, and he he serves, and – as the Bible states – he is God’s steward has a quality of authenticity. He stands out firmly from the “without reproach. He is not arrogant, quick-tempered, crowd of political leaders. Dr Kenneth Meshoe, President violent or greedy”. of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), puts high • He is competent. Not only does he have the attributes regard on Biblical values and therefore stands out firmly and skills required to be a leader in the political from the crowd of political leaders. In him, South Africa has landscape, but he has the conscientiousness and ability a leader who provides the ethical leadership that restores to ask for help when he needs is. the trust of the citizens once they get to know him better. A • He is concerned about the communities of all races and closer look at his performance in the political arena reveals is responsive to social challenges, such as poverty, the that he stands out because he walks the talk. In parliament right to owning property, the right to education and the and open platforms, he does not shy away from reminding right to a decent life in general. us what the right thing to do is according to scriptures. • His name was never linked to any fraud or corruption. He is outspoken about why he became a political leader, • He is married to Lydia for over forty years and together and his vision flows first from God’s call to him. Since it they raised three children. was founded, the ACDP is the only political party that was constant in its values. Visit www.acdp.org.za for more information. You can also download the following documents from the There are a few things that make him stand out: document library for your perusal: ACDP submission on expropriation of land without compensation; • Dr Meshoe started the Hope of Glory Tabernacle in 1988. labour laws amendment bill; ACDP manifesto; ACDP • He is Christ-centred. He is a godly leader who is quick to constitution. acknowledge that he cannot operate in his own strength Contact detail of national office: and wisdom. Tel: 011 869 3941 • He realised his calling and founded the ACDP in Email: [email protected] / [email protected] 1994, a political party that stands since its founding uncompromisingly in biblical values. • He is a person with a strong character with qualities such www.devotedmag.co.za 5

Travel with a purpose Thailand, land of smiles and friendships It has been 25 years By Gerda Potgieter one of the most popular tourist since South Africa and destinations for South Africans, “Both countries have unique with almost 100,000 South Thailand agreed on cultural heritages that can be seen Africans visiting Thailand each year, the establishment of everywhere in various aspects South Africa remains an exotic diplomatic relations such as food, fashion, music and destination for Thai tourists, with of which tourism is sports. Another element that tourists’ number amounting to only one important they share is that both countries approximately 4,500 each year. aspect of interest. We boast various tourist attractions, To increase the momentum of celebrate the friendship from unparalleled natural marvels exchange, a further understanding with this article by such as crystal-clear water with between the people of the two traveling to Thailand breath-taking beaches to rugged countries must be fostered.” mountains with unique flora and How will Thailand to strengthen our fauna, and metropolitan cities that continue to strengthen their relationship with this serve as a shopping mecca in the relationship with South country of sunshine, region, which make both countries Africa going forward? authentic cuisine and an ideal tourist destination. “South Africa, with strong Moreover, both Thailand and South infrastructure, business smiling people! Africa serve as a regional hub, fundamental and diversified providing unparalleled selections economy, remains the main hub I had the honour of meeting with in terms of accommodation, for Thai businesses looking for transportation, and a rich opportunities. Mr Paisit Boonparlit, Deputy Chief embodiment of peoples of various of Mission and Chargé d’affaires ethnic backgrounds.” Mr Paisit Boonparlit, Deputy Chief of of the Royal Thai Embassy. He Mission and Chargé d’affaires of the revealed some interesting facts: What were the major Royal Thai Embassy achievements between Are there any similarities Thailand and South between our two countries? Africa over the last 25 years of diplomatic relations, “Thais and South Africans do share specifically regarding various similarities. For instance, tourism? the people of both countries are fun-loving people, well-known for “There are various achievements their hospitality and friendliness, between the two countries, from and both possessed a genuine the agreement to exempt visa sense of creativity. Interestingly, the requirements between the two elephant serves as an important countries, which signify mutual symbol of each country, with Thai goodwill between the people of elephants (or Asian elephants the two countries, to the ever- to be exact) figures prominently increasing number of trade and in various arts and tourist tourism that have reached a new destinations. level last year. “People-to-people exchanges are high on the agenda of the two countries. Although Thailand is 6 fb.com/devotedmagazine

Travel with a purpose “A lesser known fact is that small present an important window of about the opportunities that businesses make up an important exchanges between Thais and Thailand could offer to South part of trade and investment local people. Africa in many areas. between the two countries. “The main challenges remain the “It is important to maintain Currently, there are more than 150 lack of knowledge and exchanges the momentum of exchanges Thai small businesses in South between the two countries, which between the two countries to Africa, which contributes to more represents a significant hurdle for ensure the amount of significant than 1,500 jobs for locals and businessmen and investors. The traffic of visitors between the two embassy, in collaboration with countries constantly increases various sectors in South Africa, every year.” is trying to increase awareness Pictures: Mai Thai Wellness Spa is located in De Waterkant Village, Cape Town. They are ranked the #1 Spa in South Africa on TripAdvisor Thailand is a treasure with so much to do in one place. It is no secret that South Africans Thailand offers its visitors great value establishments and spas, which are fascinated with Thailand. Our for money. It is relatively easy to get reflect the strength of Thailand citizens are travelling to Thailand in around and explore all the different in global hospitality and wellness greater numbers, and it does not areas. My first-ever overseas trip was businesses. A Thai spa is a place seem to slow down in any way, to Thailand, and since then I have of wellness and culture, and Thai especially with regular special offers been privileged to visit various areas massage is a therapeutic massage, that make it difficult not to visit this on three different trips. I travelled which focuses on using pressure beautiful country and explore the from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, to points to relieve sore muscles and hospitality of its people. wonderful beaches in Pattaya and various ailments. then to my personal favourite, Kho So, why are we so fascinated with Samui. Thailand is not just the well- The Thai government Thailand? In short, it is a treasure known island of Phuket – it is much, enacted a law that with so much to do in one place. much more, and it will continue to would ensure the Call me biased, but I can point out fascinate South Africans for years to a few things that won me over: come! quality and standard of Thai spas and Thai spa • Thailand boasts friendly, serving Thai food is one of the most well- and smiling people. known aspects of Thai culture, and workers all over. many South African restaurants • The breath-taking natural feature Thai food on their menus. To this end, the embassy aims to beauty and ancient ruins of the Thai cuisine is often associated with promote further collaboration with old kingdoms are a must-see. Thai chefs and natural ingredients the South African government and embedded in Thai culture and to ensure that Thai spas in South • The robust and authentic cuisine traditions. Africa have the highest standard is a must on any visit. and present a unique choice for Another well-known aspect of the South African consumers. • It is cost-effective to travel to Thai culture is the Thai massage and in the country and they have excellent public transport. Visit: http://www.thaiembassy.org/pretoria/en/news/2307/86133-25th-Anniversary- of-Diplomatic-Relations-between-T.html#.Wz953IxABwU.email; • The awesome nightlife is a great www.dirco.gov.za>bilateralhistory; and www.thaiembassy.org for more information. plus. Travel information on Thailand can be obtained from www.tourismthailand.org. • My personal favourite is the many spas and wellness centres that are well-known and well worth a visit. www.devotedmag.co.za 7

Actual Did South Africans get what they deserve with their leadership? By Wilhelmina Bekker South Africans could deserve the leaders they have put into power, because they voted for them. If voters do not act more responsibly with their votes in future and continue to put those in power who deliberately destroy our country for their own gain, then they should know that they are in for a rougher ride after this year’s elections. And not all of us can or want to move to another country in search of a better life. The media has a responsibility to report on things that party that reflect our values and beliefs the most. If South Africa is regarded as a are not right like widespread corruption and unethical Christian country, and the statistics show practices. This is truer for Christian publications, and that that it is, we have a moral obligation to vote is why we will, despite being a good-news publication, for a party that upholds biblical principles, join those who keep on writing about the current state the guidelines for Christians. And then the of our government. As background to this article, I choices are not that many! It should be an refer to a South African report on corruption on www. easy one, but are we acting responsibly in this business-anti-corruption.com. It provides an overview regard? I do not think so… of the current corrupt state of our government under different categories. It is a must read if you want to take an Our government fails us informed decision when you vote. Our government has failed us and the media has exposed Corruption is the biggest threat to our democracy and them in various ways – Nkandla, Bosasa, the Gupta finances. Our leaders often point out underdevelopment, scandals, failure of State Owned Enterprises (SEOs) – poverty, lack of social justice and “legacies” of Apartheid as the list is endless. To steal from your own people, and the reasons for their poor (if any) service delivery. The sad especially the vulnerable and so blatantly, is NOT a biblical truth is that these challenges will continue to persist if we principle. The Word is clear about this. With the eighth do not deal with corruption first, as well as the problems commandment, God gave us clear instruction not to steal. associated with it. If our leaders steal from us, and they clearly do, it is even worse as they are under obligation to set the example for Voters play a huge role in shaping the government and us to follow. We are trusting them with our votes … and their own future. For a vast majority of our people, the our hard-earned money. right to vote in this country came with huge sacrifices, and it is understandable that they are loyal and vote for South Africans have been experiencing more widespread the political party that helped them through the struggle. corruption, money laundering and unethical practices But it should be clear to most voters that we are now in over a wide spectrum since 1994. Ironically, our leaders an even bigger struggle, one that could destroy our future still blame the leadership of as far back as the 1700s for and resources through the misuse of available resources, their lack of good governance! The sad truth is that we can including taxpayer monies. only fix something we acknowledge needs fixing. As long as we deny our challenges, and even worse, keep blaming It seems that a small number of people really understand others for them, we will not be able to move forward and or appreciate the role they play in shaping governments. make this country great again, as President Trump would Our responsibilities as eligible voters include casting a put it! vote and making sure we vote for the right person and 8 fb.com/devotedmagazine

Actual “mCoursrtuFpatlilo!n Financial damage to the country It is very important to look at the leadership of the three biggest political parties and their history of corruption A report by the Auditor General, Kimi Makwethu, early in before deciding who to vote for in the next elections. 2018 highlighted the extent of financial damage to the state coffers. He investigated and recorded that the ANC This year we have the opportunity to change the current government stole and misappropriated R80 billion during state of corrupt affairs! It is my wish that all South Africans the 2017 financial year. On top of that, it is estimated will empower themselves by doing much needed research that South Africans have been looted from a staggering on options available to them, open their eyes and be more estimated R100-billion through state capture. It will be responsible with their votes! Turning up at the voting years, and it will take several generations before this stations remains a good start! economic damage of state capturing could be dealt with. “The ANC has governed SA for 24 They say that a fish rots from its head down. There is no years – crime, violence, corruption, doubt that Jacob Zuma, with his unethical leadership style, has drawn attention to corruption in our country. unemployment and poverty have There is no doubt in the minds of ordinary South Africans increased. BEE was created and that he left a legacy of corruption, economic malaise and made only the ANC elite wealthy. high levels of misappropriation of tax monies. Stop making excuses for a corrupt, News on corruption (read www.corruptionwatch.org.za), incompetent and failed ANC to quote just one example of many, highlighted that “there government.” is evidence that the heart of the problem lies in the lack of accountability for maladministration and corruption.” “Dr Kenneth Meshoe, The website also states that this problem “starts with the President of the ACDP” president (referring to Zuma, then President) – while there are various efforts by the government to tackle corruption, these actions were countered by the continuing impunity on the part of those who were politically and financially powerful.” www.devotedmag.co.za 9

Inspiration Does adversity make us stronger? By Gerda Potgieter It is not always easy to stay positive amidst adversity. However, identifying and learning from the habits of positive people help us to overcome adversity and grow stronger. André Buckle is a highly respected person who has the kind of positive outlook on life that we want to emulate. André rebounds from life’s challenges, coming out stronger on the other side. And this is his story... Overcoming adversity is probably one of the biggest was both an awful and profound experience. As serious as it was, André realises that his experience does not hurdles we face, but having a positive attitude and good compare to what could have happened – he could have support system in the form of family and friends helps a been dead or paralysed permanently. He was one of the lot. And André Buckle can tell you all about weathering lucky ones, but it also came with a price. After many, many the storm. Last year, he found out for himself how months of pain and suffering, rehabilitation and hard work important it is to have a good support system in place and he now walks with the help of a cane (sometimes) – slowly a positive outlook on life when life turns it’s back on you. but surely. There are good days and bad days. And it is especially André is one of the most positive people I know and has during the bad days that the support of loved ones and a a very generous soul, always willing to lend a helping firm belief in our Healer help him to get through adversity. hand. He is fit, takes good care of himself, eats healthily and ensures that he gets enough exercise. He is a hard Neck injuries, in general, are serious, and a good attitude is one of worker and runs a successful business, giving the best to the many things that can determine a good outcome. his clients while balancing his successful business with family life. His balanced lifestyle, together with his strong faith in the Lord, paid off when he got hurt badly, and his life changed within a few seconds. One morning, early in 2018, he took a scary fall from his van which sent him flying, then landing on his upper back and neck. The trauma to his upper body resulted in his neck being fractured. The accident resulted in a neck operation and months of rehabilitation with its ups and downs. But hard work, as well as support and prayers from loved ones and friends helped heal him so that he has much to look forward to now, one year after the accident. Neck injuries sometimes have dire consequences, and André’s injury left me wondering what it really means to break your neck and if one can fully recover from such an ordeal. An injury to the spinal cord may cause death or quadruplegia, and not many people can walk away (literally) from such a serious injury. Neck injuries, in general, are serious, and a good attitude is one of the many things that can determine a good outcome. And, of course, faith in the Healer has much to do with it. In André’s case, his injuries were serious, and he had to learn to walk again weeks after the operation. For him, it 10 fb.com/devotedmagazine

Inspiration After many, many months of pain and suffering, rehabilitation and hard work he now walks with the help of a cane (sometimes) – slowly but surely. Q&A I asked André a few questions to help our readers get through some tough times that they are facing. Q: When you were injured, what was the prognosis regarding your recovery? A: In short, it was not good. Initially I had virtually no feeling in my legs, with only the faintest of a flicker in my right big toe. The physiotherapists at the rehab are amazing and got me doing things I never thought possible at the time. Eight months after the accident the biokineticist studied the x-rays, and he remarked that I must have had angels taking care of me as this type of injury normally ends in death or paraplegia. I am so grateful that I can walk now, even though I know that I still have a mountain in front of me to conquer. Q: I visited you a few times after your accident and every time I was amazed (and very pleased) by your progress. Do you think that your healthy outlook on life helped you to overcome adversity? A: I believe it helped me to stay positive. In general, despite all the challenges and the many ups and downs, it boiled down to me having a choice. We choose how we react to all things that happen to us. Like Charles R Swindoll once said: “Life is 40% what happens to us and 60% how we respond to it!” And then, I could also not have done it without the help of my wonderful wife and family. The experience, together with its many challenges, enriched our relationships. Q: Do you believe that pain builds character? A: Integrating and implementing sound principles in your life builds character, not pain and suffering. By that I mean that your relationship with the Lord should be healthy and on par with your belief system. Adversity does not build character; it reveals what your character is. Q: What is the most important takeaway that you can share that could help others to overcome adversity? A: The most important thing that I have learned from this experience is that, no matter what, you must believe in yourself and believe in the Lord. Anyone can apply these principles to their life. There is no avoiding bad things happening to you, but it is all about how you respond to those challenges. Will you fall apart when life happens, or will you look for ways to deal with the situation and make the best of it? Adversity does not define us, but how we deal with it does. It is important that we recognise it in our personal life, our careers and all other aspects of our being. Do not allow negative emotions (and thoughts) to get the better of you. 11www.devotedmag.co.za

Book Review TUTRUNRNIITT ARROOUUNDND Shift your perceptions in a changing world By Angelique du Toit (review by Gerda Potgieter) I received this book in a time I So, why do you need this gifted woman and I heard via the this book? The answer is grapevine that she also has two very needed it the most and what a great simple: It is so easy to get interesting devotionals coming out read it is, from the first page to the stuck in the negativity later this year. One is a joint project last. It is indeed a book written for that surrounds us. If we with five other authors on Women times such as this! do not make an effort to of the Bible in the modern day. The change things around we second is a 365 Day Devotional. She South Africans (and the rest of the will, as Angelique puts it, is currently authoring her 6th book. world for that matter) are going be stuck with “repetitive Congratulations, Angelique, from the through some tough times, and it is patterns that keep us Devoted team. hard for individuals to stay positive ensnared, frustrated and amidst such general negativity. unhappy”. A positive Angelique du Toit is a Angelique reminds us that the two attitude helps you to businesswoman, inspirational most important days of our lives are cope better with life speaker, author, mother, wife and the day we are born, and the day we in general and once has an inspirational real-life story are reborn. To be born again means you start the process to share and inspire. If you want that you have gained faith in Jesus of turning away from to know more about Angelique, Christ and you develop a direct and a negative pattern visit www.angeliquedutoit.co.za or personal relationship with the Lord. or habit, “you create email her on [email protected]. So, if we claim that we are born again, new capacity to and have faith in the Lord, why do we receive love, joy, allow ourselves to be so negative, to peace, patience, lose hope and spread negative talk? kindness, goodness, faithfulness, The title of the book is relevant, gentleness and self- very meaningful and sets the tone control…” for the content. You do not have to go further than the introduction Turn it around ends to realise that this is a book of on a high note substance, a cut above the rest. with Angelique’s In essence, the title (and subtitle) personal invitation to readers to implies that you reflect (you deeply “turn away from the ties that bind re-think the situation); review (assess and the things that easily ensnare your situation from all angles with the and trap you and prevent you from intention to institute change); repent reaching and fulfilling your highest (a change of heart that will bring you purpose.” And, there cannot be a closer to the Lord); and reverse (you better time to take up this challenge turn away from the status quo). as there is no time like the present. The author deals with issues such as More about the author: coping with the unexpected tides of life; rushing everywhere but going Angelique du Toit is no stranger to nowhere; how to harness energy for our readers. Not only did we profile good and how to position yourself her in a past issue, but I also had for a Higher Purpose, among others. the privilege to review her first two These are all issues that most of us books, Standing tall in a falling world struggle with. Angelique cleverly uses (2015) and What in the world are you real life-lessons and experiences to waiting for (2017) – both books are demonstrate coping skills that we also must-reads. Turn it around (2018) can easily apply to our own lives if we is the latest book from the pen of wish to do so. 12 fb.com/devotedmagazine

Devoted supports Droogtehulp vir Boere (with Burre Burger) You are invited to join us! Drought affects the environment and it affects all of us in many ways. Food supply shrink and habitat is damaged. Animals suffer. And, the farmers suffer the most! Burre Burger was obedient when • “Vandag is my verjaardag en DROOGTEHULP MET gewoonlik hou ek .‘n goeie opskop. BURRE (NPC) God called him to help the farmers in Vanjaar het ek anders besluit, ek drought affected areas. He founded het die geld van die opskop in jou First National Bank Droogtehulp vir Boere, a worthy cause rekening gedeponeer. Dankie vir Acc No: 62721858522 that helps farmers in drought stricken jou goeie werk..” (Marius Ehlers) Type: Cheque areas. Devoted supports this initiative. Branch Nr: 200406 Vredendal This is a cause close to our hearts and • “Ek woon in Ficksburg in die Oos Swift code: FIRNZAJJ we want to encourage our readers to Vrystaat en het ‘n gastehuis. Ek sal Ref: DROOGTEHULP support and help wherever they can. graag help met akkommodasie vir Email: [email protected] die trokdrywers of enige persoon Paypal: [email protected] Your donations can ease some of the wat op pad is om droogtehulp aan burden. You can donate money or te bied.” (Sandra Keeve Netherlands) Devoted supports Droogtehulp products. met Burre, do you? • “Danksy die program ‘Tussen ons” Even the smallest actions can en Spar het Joshua (Joshua se You cannot afford NOT TO! make a big difference! Look Sopkombuis) ‘n tjek ter waarde at some of the unique support van R10,000 vir die droogtefonds Visit: www.droogtehulp.co.za // received so far that surely gegee.” (Manda Roos) Follow them on made an impact, and see how • “Ek daag alle plaasbestuurders uit Facebook. // “Like” and “share” YOU can assist: reg oor die land om net R200 te skenk.” (Gampie Roux)

Changing lives one precious soul at a time! Eduplex In Christo Omnia Possum “I can do all things in Christ” Schools play a major role in society, and the right Pretoria, is such a school that changes lives, one school can make all the difference in the life of a precious soul at a time. Eduplex caters for both young person. normal hearing and a small number of learners The right school, with dedicated teachers, can with hearing loss. enhance the experience of the interactions for Read in our next issue why The Devoted Team learners. Eduplex, situated in Queenswood in think Eduplex is the best school in the country. Visit http:// www.eduplex.co.za to learn more about the Eduplex pre-, primary and high shools and www.eduplextraining.com to learn more about the Eduplex training institute. Devoted supports Eduplex School 14 fb.com/devotedmagazine