A four letter word that I really dislike is the one that people often tell themselves or others. It is not a “swear” word but it should be. Whenever one utters this word, it is at once a resolution that is disabling of further action. Be sure never to use this discouraging word with anyone you really care about who has an aspiration of some kind. Never tie your own hands behind your back by muttering the word to yourself.
Against impossible odds, we see people surviving and thriving who really should not be, under the circumstances. They find a way to do what is needed by avoiding a simple word, “can’t.” Think about the man who was pinned down by a rock that crushed one of his arms. Ultimately, he had to cut off his own arm, but he saved his life.
It’s the same with anything in life. If you think you can succeed and you listen to your own inner voice, your dream will come to fruition. Many times in my own life, I’ve used the idea of mind over matter to achieve a goal. One small example of that is learning to swim. I did not swim at all until I had to learn how as a university requirement. In order to pass the course, I had to swim four laps of an Olympic size pool. This was a challenge from someone who came from a non-swimming family. My mother always told me that I’d drown if I went near the water, above my ankles. Silly woman!
I not only learned how to swim. I signed up for additional courses at the university, including a Water Safety Instructor’s course. Then I attended the National Aquatic School for lifeguard training and the following summer taught swimming at an all-girls summer camp. It is very possible to overcome any mindset, if a person is determined enough.
As much as you can, please try to put the word “can’t” out of your mind. All the time, I am told by people that they just “can’t” even think of learning to quilt. They know they wouldn’t succeed. Well, I suppose it is one thing to say that, but is it really the truth? Of course, there is freedom of choice. I’m not saying that everyone has to learn to swim or learn to quilt. Just never say “can’t” until you try. The young climber stuck between rocks would be a skeleton by now, if he’d given up altogether. You can try to give up bad habits, but please, please, never give up on yourself.
Those are my thoughts for the day.
Pat
