2 . Believe in God , knowing that there is a supreme being who is a source of our strength , light , knowledge , and understanding .
9 . Celebrate small wins .
10 . Push , press , and persevere , you will get there .
BUILDING A LEGACY
3 . Be bold when visualizing your dreams . Recognize and accept that as we chase those dreams , we will face adversities but will surmount them with courage , commitment , and confidence .
4 . Extinguish excuses and excel .
5 . Remain focused and keep our eyes on the prize instead of the pain that comes with the pursuit of our possibilities .
6 . No matter what we go through , we must not pity ourselves or feel that we are the worst .
7 . Try not to procrastinate ; instead , be focused and purposedriven .
8 . Choose progress over perfection .
When history is written , Dr . Smalling wants to be forever known as : Always committed to elevating and empowering others . She wants to be recognized by her work . Having written one book , she reminds us that it will not be the last one . “ I want those books to be among the top options that persons keep and always refer to when they want to grow and improve in certain areas of their lives . She wants to be referenced as a fierce advocate for persons living with lupus and for the most vulnerable among us . She wants her life to validate how persons can transform their valley moments into moments of value , their sad stories into stories of success , and their adversities into monumental achievements .
Although living with an autoimmune illness , Dr . Smalling speaks of maintaining a productive and empowered life . She offers that having lupus should not be considered as a death sentence , a crutch or an excuse . Marsha is committed to living out loud and having a fulfilled life . “ If I ’ m going to live my purpose , I need to always draw on the power of the human spirit to propel me , give back , and lift others up .” Dr . Smalling as an educator , author , innovator , and motivator , has lifted others and touched the future . Her journey reflects the words of Nelson Mandela , “ Everyone can rise above circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do .”
Written by Dr . Maxine Wilson
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