Stubborn Tenacity

On our recent vacation to Aruba we took an ATV excursion to a remote location on the island. The terrain was rough and rugged and we all enjoyed the challenge of maneuvering the four wheelers across rocks, up inclines, and down to a breathtaking view of the uninhabited side of the island. Allison said our journey there reminded her of the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland, so she and I found much pleasure in humming the theme song to Indiana Jones as we bounced along the trail.

One of our stops was the "Natural Pool." This pool of water is protected by beautiful rock formations and is a great place to jump in, cool off, and swim with some beautiful fish. However, in order to enjoy the pool, you have to descend 85 steps to the ocean. That doesn't seem like too many steps, but they are "deep" steps and cut out of the rock, so it can be tricky…especially for a 7 year old who is afraid of heights, but Ally insisted on giving it a try. Even though most were enjoying the water while she was merely half-way down the steps, she didn't lose heart, and eventually made it! We enjoyed a brief swim and then had the daunting task of climbing back up the steps, and once again, Ally's stubborn tenacity paid off. She made it back up the steps…tired, but with a huge smile on her face as the others in our group cheered her on for her accomplishment.

I watched her beautiful blue eyes sparkle as she realized what she had just pulled off. Even our tour guide said to me, "Many folks stop here for the view but are too lazy to make the effort to really experience the pool. You should be very proud of yourself little gal."

I wonder how often we miss out on great experiences in life simply because we are not willing to make the effort to do something that is difficult for us? I wonder how often we stop short of living up to our full potential because we want things to come easily? That day at the Natural Pool in Aruba, I was reminded of this poem:

"THE MAN WHO THINKS HE CAN"

If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you'd like to win, but think you can't
It's almost a cinch you won't.
If you think you'll lose, you've lost,
For out in the world we find
Success beings with a fellow's will;
It's all in the state of mind.

If you think you're outclassed, you are:
You've got to think high to rise.
You've got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.