"Deep down we know that what matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. What really matters is helping others win, too, even if it means slowing down and changing our course now and then." ~ Mr. Rogers
One of my favorite movies was the 1981 classic Chariots of Fire. It was a story of faith and dedication to the pursuit of our passion. It also dealt with overcoming the expectations and negative perspective of detractors.
It gave me the sense that following my dreams was more important than the opinions of others. It also led me to an understanding that ‘sometimes the runner stumbles’. We don’t get it right all of the time. We fall to the ground in dejection. We feel like giving in or giving up. But if we ask for help and get back up we will find that there are always resources enough to carry on.Great things begin to happen when we grasp the idea that it is our mission to be passionately engaged with one another. It is of the highest priority. My wife was a teacher of Special Education who was actively engaged in Special Olympics.There is a story that circulates quite frequently about that great program, founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. It seems that nine contestants had signed up for the hundred yard dash one year at an Olympic site. They lined up and took off at the sound of the starter pistol. One of the little boys didn’t get very far before stumbling and falling.His knee was skinned and he started to cry. The other eight kids heard him, and rather than running ahead, turned around, and ran back to him. All eight of them went back! The boy got up, his friends linked their arms together and joyfully walked to the finish line. They all completed the race at the same time to the roar of the crowd, cheers, and whistles. The celebration went on for a long time.We are reminded that when we help the one who stumbles and lock arms in solidarity with God that the words of the prophets are fulfilled;‘We will regain our strength. We will sprout wings like eagles. Though we run we will not grow weary. Though we walk we will never tire’.Robert Kenneth Jones is an innovator in the treatment of addiction and childhood abuse.In a career spanning over four decades, his work helping people recover from childhood abuse and addiction has earned him the respect of his peers.His blog, An Elephant for Breakfast, testifies to the power of the human spirit to overcome the worst of life’s difficulties. We encourage you to visit and share this rich source of healing, inspiration, and meditation.Contact Bob Jones on LinkedinBob Jones’ blog An Elephant for Breakfast