Ride the Waves
Ready — Raised in a surfing family, she was hitting the waves before she could walk. By age eight, she was competing; by age ten, she had sponsors. Then it happened. On an October morning in 2003, thirteen-year-old Bethany Hamilton’s life changed in an instant. While surfing off Kauai, a 14-foot tiger shark attacked, severing her left arm.
Set — Just one month later, Bethany was back in the ocean. She competed within months and, by age 17, won first place in a national surfing championship. Her journey became the basis for the bestselling book and film Soul Surfer, inspiring millions with her message of faith and perseverance.
Bethany’s experience teaches us to . . .
Choose faith over fear. Most people assumed her surfing dreams were over. Instead, Bethany chose faith over fear and courage over comfort. She trusted God’s plan even when life felt unfair.
Persevere through pain. When the shark attack happened, she faced not only physical pain but the mental and emotional anguish of losing what she loved. Yet, she refused to sink. Even in the hospital, Bethany told her family, “I want to surf again.”
Adapt, adapt, adapt. She developed new surfing techniques instead of giving up. She taught herself to balance, paddle, and pop up on a board with one arm.
Use your platform for good. She travels frequently to meet with children and adults facing physical challenges, loss, or trauma. Her testimony reminds them that life’s setbacks don’t have to define their future.
Inspire by example. She says, “I don’t need easy. I just need possible.” Her courage motivates others facing adversity.
Grow! — Bethany Hamilton didn’t just return to surfing. She married, became a mother, and continues to surf professionally, all while using her platform to point people to faith. Bethany shows that life’s biggest waves can lift you higher if you ride them with courage and faith.
Two Questions
What challenges in your life require strong faith?
How can you use your pain to encourage others?