Where Life Stops and Our Plans Collapse - Stop Lights | Cody Byrns | TEDxGrandCanyonUniversity

Stoplights… At some point in our lives, we have encountered them. They are annoying, especially when you are in a rush to get to your desired destination. In 2013, Cody encountered a stoplight on the highway where his entire life as he knew it, would come to a complete stop; his goals, ambitions and upcoming engagements… everything. While stopped at this red light, he was rear-ended by a refrigerator box truck that caused his automobile to burst into flames, literally burning him alive. First responders thought he was dead upon arrival, but they would later see his hand move… and that little bit of movement changed everything for him. Cody, who is a professional speaker, juggler and comedian, suddenly found himself in a new reality where he had to start from square one. Interestingly enough, through this near-death experience he discovered that many individuals and business leaders have also endured stoplights… a sudden death in the family, a divorce, a worldwide pandemic, or even a recession. In these moments where everything stops, how do we conduct ourselves accordingly? Sadly, many individuals remain stuck in yesterday’s troubles because they either don’t know how to move on or they choose to avoid any sense of progression; out of fear of experiencing the pain again. However, it’s possible to harness past trauma and use it to our benefit and for our future endeavors. Through research in psychology and personal triumph, Cody discovered tangible steps with which he will demonstrate what a little bit of movement can do for anyone - despite their stoplights. Cody Byrns is an internationally recognized speaker, burn survivor, professional juggler, and a number-one best-selling author. In May of 2013, Cody’s life drastically changed; while waiting at a red light on the highway, Cody was rear-ended by a box-truck that failed to stop. As a result, he was considered dead until first responders saw his hand move. He received many injuries that day, including severe burns to almost 40% of his body. After years of countless surgeries and rehabilitation, Cody has chosen not to allow his scars to keep him bound in bitterness and defeat. Instead, he uses his story to help people live free from the bonds of scars (physical and emotional), equipping others with the proper steps to walk out of their past hurt and defeat and to run towards their full potential. He has also been featured on many TV programs, and radio shows around the world, and commonly speaks at college and corporate conferences. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx