Here’s a question for you:
Have you ever watched someone and thought, If they can do that, what’s stopping me?
I remember the first time I saw Nick Vujicic. I was a teenager—restless, self-absorbed, and honestly, a little entitled (aren’t we all at that age?). One day, scrolling through videos during a dull afternoon, I stumbled upon this guy standing in front of a huge audience. He had no arms. No legs. Just a big smile and an even bigger personality.
At first, I thought, What could this guy possibly teach me?
But within minutes, he had me hooked.
“If This Guy Can Do It, So Can I”
Nick wasn’t just standing (metaphorically) on that stage; he was owning it. He was funny, energetic, and ridiculously passionate. He talked about falling down—literally and figuratively—and finding the strength to get back up. And, wow, the way he connected with those students? It felt like he was talking to me.
That day, something shifted in me.
I thought about all the petty complaints I carried around: not getting what I wanted, feeling misunderstood, struggling with school pressures. Then there was Nick, cracking jokes about not being able to hold a pen, turning life’s cruel hand into a comedy act—and a deeply inspiring one at that.
If Nick could face life with that much courage, positivity, and humor, what excuse did I have?
Gratitude and Role Models
For the first time, I started paying attention to what gratitude really meant. I realized I’d been so busy focusing on what I didn’t have that I overlooked the incredible things I did have. Nick became my role model—not because he was perfect or superhuman, but because he embraced his imperfections and made them his strength.
His story inspired me to:
- Stop making excuses.
- Appreciate the small things.
- Approach challenges with humor instead of self-pity.
When the Message Shifted
Years later, I followed Nick’s journey as he became a pastor and his talks grew more religious. And here’s the thing: while I respect faith as a powerful source of strength for many, his message didn’t resonate with me as much anymore.
I’m not particularly religious, so when Nick started leaning heavily into a faith-based message, I felt a little disconnected. That doesn’t mean his words weren’t meaningful; they just didn’t align with where I was in my life.
But even then, I couldn’t help but admire him. His conviction, his ability to inspire, and his commitment to helping others were still incredible. Nick taught me that it’s okay to outgrow someone’s message while still cherishing the impact they had on your life.
What Nick Vujicic Taught Me About Humanity
Nick’s story reminds me that humans are resilient, adaptable, and capable of extraordinary things. He showed me that perspective is everything.
- A challenge can be a curse or a blessing—it depends on how you frame it.
- Humor and positivity can defuse even the toughest situations.
- And gratitude? That’s a game-changer.
Even now, when life throws me a curveball, I think of Nick laughing on that stage, making jokes about falling down and getting back up.
Your Turn to Reflect
Who’s your Nick? Maybe it’s a speaker, a friend, or even a stranger who showed you a different way to live. Think about their story, their resilience, and their message. Then ask yourself: What am I doing to make my own life—and the lives of others—better?
Nick Vujicic may not speak to me in the same way anymore, but his lesson stays with me: life is what you make of it. So, make it count.
by Martin Pino 
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