The lesson from the tortoise

Aesop's fable taught us that the race does not always go to the swift, and thus we ought also to value perseverance and to be wary of arrogance. However, there is another lesson to be learned from the tortoise in that story: it is not that he won the race because of the hare's overconfidence, but that he finished the race at all. You see, the tortoise was carrying a heavy load that took its toll in fatigue, but the plodder still ran the race. Had the rabbit been more careful, he would have won the race easily - but the tortoise still would have finished.

Those who are hindered or disabled by age or infirmity must learn very quickly the lesson of the tortoise. There is no way we can do what those who are young and healthy can do. They outstrip us in speed, strength and stamina. Whether the race is long or short, they will cross the finish line first. The point we who are less able must learn, and learn quickly, is that we may not win, but we can still run. We may not be as able to accomplish things as we once were or as others are, but we can still do things - some things, at some speed - and so we ought to press on, for a half loaf is better than none. A trickle may not fill the bucket as quickly as a gush, but it will eventually fill it. Because of a pinched nerve in my neck I am typing this with one hand because to use my left hand is soon very uncomfortable, and it is taking much longer than it normally would; but you see, I did finally get through, didn't I?

Finally, I would remind all of us that as long as our minds are functioning we can still pray, no matter what our physical disabilities may be; and that is the most important thing, anyway.