Fragile Memory

Every once in a while, When I get especially discouraged or frustrated, I think back to my high school days and recall little John Etherton. I say little because he was really "little"; although his parents and brother were normal, John, because of some genealogical fluke, was small, not much more than three feet tall.

It would be hard for many people to imagine the hardships one have trying to live the life of a teenager and later an adult while being three feet tall. Many of us would perhaps withdraw from life in self-pity under such circumstances. But not "little" John. While in high school he became captain of the debate team, a Thespian who starred in all the school plays, and an outstanding student who graduated in the top 10% of a class of 400+. In fact, "little" John Etherton received an academic scholarship to attend college.

At times in life, when it seems like nothing is going right or the world is beginning to collapse around us, it helps to remember people like John, who overcame life's harshest blows. and through determination and a positive attitude obtained victory in the face of defeat.  It also helps to remember that "With God all things are possible."  So the next time you may be tempted to quit when the going gets rough, give God a chance to enable you to overcome.

Ray