“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan ‘press on’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.”
Its still in my wallet; I've kept it over 48 years. Its crinkled and faded and I every time I take it out I tell myself I should replace it. I haven't done it yet...maybe I never will.
Life tests us. In unexpected and unforeseen ways. We're never prepared no matter how well we think we are. That is harsh. That is reality. What we do have is how we react. I may have been born with optimistic genes but some days...
When he was 12, Andrew broke both his legs in a tobogganing accident. I spent the first night with him in the hospital. With both legs in traction, he was scared. I would have done anything to change places. Without thinking I told him over and over that we...he...needed to preserve...that he would get through this!
Many years later my divorce tested me almost to the breaking point. Additionally, I had three boys about to enter their teenage years. And get their driver's licenses'. And learn how to drink. Resisting the urge to give up, to throw in the towel...
Going bankrupt over 9 years ago was a crusher. I cried the day I sat in front of the bankruptcy agent and signed the documents. His words ring loudly still, 'You are going to get through this whether you sign or not...it will be excruciatingly tough either way...your choice'. I signed. He was more right than he knew...my financial life is better today after that crisis.
My point is that we all have the strength to persist and resist. It comes down to the ability to choose to do so.
Until next time...