Perseverance: is it in you?

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. James Moore Jr.
  • 35th Communication Squadron superintendent
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Growing up, I remember hearing the story of the little engine who could. He was not the strongest train in the depot but he did have the biggest heart. The little engine set his mind on the goal of reaching the top of the hill and nothing or no one was going to stand in his way. 

The other trains would tell him there was no way he could make it so why even try. Did he listen to them? No, he ignored the negative talk and focused his energy on his goal.

Today, you may have dreams and aspirations that seem a world away because you face challenges that seem insurmountable and feel like you are being pulled in several different directions. 

Step back and take a lesson from the little engine. He set his mind on a goal and was determined to reach that goal. You will face adversity and nay slayers who will tell you your goal is impossible so you might as well give up. Do not listen to them. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minster during World War II, once gave a commencement speech where the only words he spoke were "Never, never give up!" Short, to the point and ever so powerful.

I challenge you to set your goals and do not let anything or anyone stop you from reaching them. It will not be easy and you may face situations that will test every fiber of your resolve, but when you overcome all the obstacles and reach your goal there is no better feeling in the world. 

Oh, by the way, the little engine did make it to the top through perseverance and never losing sight of his goal. Do not lose sight of your goal, persevere to the end and reap the reward of your efforts.