I was reminded of this story as I wrote last months entry "Prepare to Face the Fury of the Jungle." 

Several years ago, my wife was asked to teach a sunday school class full of 9 year olds.  On her first day, she planned some "get-to-know-you" questions.  Beginning with the obvious, she asked all the kids to share their name. 

When it was Samuel Sissan's turn (name changed), she was surprised to hear him introduce himself as "Thamuel Thithan."  We knew the Sissan family but did not know that Samuel could not pronounce the letter "S." 

The second question was also obvious: "What do you want to do when you grow up?"  The kids went around the room and revealed all sorts of noble aspirations, "Firefighter," "Doctor," and many other occupations none of which contained the letter "S." 

We knew that Samuel's parents were very intelligent and that his father did something with science - possibly physics.  But my wife was surprised when Samuel announced his desire to become a "PhyTHiTHiTHT" (Physicist).

I have reflected on this optimistic aspiration many times over the years.  This young boy wanted to become something he could not even pronounce.  Yet unafraid, he announced to the world his desire and with childlike faith, believed it would be so. 

I would bet you a box of dark chocolates that today, Samuel can pronounce the letter "S" and that he is studying physics or perhaps working somewhere as a physicist. 

Like Samuel, about two years ago I made an announcement.  I told friends and family that I wanted to write a book.  Last week, I finished my part of the manuscript.  My co-author is finishing the last chapter and the rest of it is being edited.  You can read a little about the book here. 

What do you want to do?  What do you want to be?  Think it, say it, then let it be so.

In Wellness