“What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step. It is always the same step, but you have to take it.” – Antoine De Saint-Exupery
I remember when my nephew was just learning to walk, he had his share of tumbles. It seemed every time he got to his feet and took a few steps, it wasn’t long before he’d fall on his behind frustrated.
What I remember most about that time is not how frequently my young nephew fell, but how many times he continually picked himself back up – almost unaffected by his recurring tumbles and his inability to master the art of walking.
If there’s one thing you can say about children it’s how resilient they are.
Regardless of their growing pains (learning to crawl or walk or talk), they are never discouraged. They persevere by doing nothing more than taking a step and then another. And before long, the struggle soon fades and victory is theirs (until the next challenge comes along).
The longer we journey through life and face the harsh realities many of us would rather deny exist, the more we lose our resilience. We become jaded and bitter and unable to reignite our passions, desires and perseverance.
Watching my young nephew, as he continues to grow and develop into a little boy, always reminds me that throughout every stage of our life, we’re always met with struggles to overcome. What’s important is to remember to take a step and then another. It may always be the same old step, but it often gets you to where you want to be.
