Thursday; September 16
One of the challenges we face as a developing human race is that we have gotten pretty good at overcoming obstacles. Wait! You might have to go back and reread that comment. How in the world could being good at overcoming obstacles be a challenge? The problem with it is that when we become comfortable with being comfortable we tend to avoid things that are inconvenient or uncomfortable. The thing prompted this thought was the headline from a newsfeed that proclaimed hundreds weathered a rainstorm to attend a 9/11 anniversary concert. While I was glad that people were willing to do that, the thing that piqued my interest was that it was newsworthy. This gathering was designed to honor and remember those who suffered one of the most horrific events in our lifetime – why should a little rain interrupt it?
Modern society is continually facing the dilemma: Convenience vs. Commitment. Are we willing to endure “hardships” to take a stand? Are we committed enough to a cause (any cause) that we would endure discomfort (much less pain) to see it through? While I am glad we have advanced in many ways, we must make sure that our comfort-level does not overshadow a level of conviction. The next time we face a decision on whether to endure inconvenience to promote a cause, let’s think back on those who have been willing to endure hardship so that we can enjoy the ease we have – then let’s pass that conviction on to the next generation by showing them what it takes to be committed.
Think About It!