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Along Life’s Way
Ready! Set! Go?
By Lois E. Wilson
In school did you have races with your classmates? The participants
would line up side-by-side at the start. The starter/coach checked to
see if all were in their places and paying attention, then called out,
”Ready?”
At the call, “Set!” all competitors were to assume their positions and
focus on the goal. The starter then rang a gong or most likely yelled,
“Go!” All participants took off running toward the finish line.
In the game Hide and Seek, the person who is “it” warns, “Here I come ready or not!” One who is not ready can lose the game.
The word “ready” is a synonym for “preparedness.” Being ready and
prepared is in the creeds and mottos of many groups. The scouts
emphasize preparedness.
The Army Creed states: “I am disciplined, physically and mentally
tough, trained and proficient in my Warrior tasks and drills. I always
maintain my arms, my equipment and myself. I am an expert and I am a
professional. I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies
of the United States of America in close combat.”
One of the mottos of the Navy Seals is: “Ready to lead, ready to follow.”
As one proceeds through life—at stages of it, components of living
change. Your mental and physical abilities may increase and at times
decrease from the experiences you encounter. “Skill and confidence are
an unconquered army.” (George Herbert)
Your answer to the question, “Ready?” may change through no fault of
your own. The next question you often must answer as you consider
personal circumstances is, “Are you willing?”
If you are willing, the last question is, “Are you able?”
“You will never learn anything new unless you are ready to accept
yourself with your limitations. You must accept the fact that you are
capable in some directions and limited in others, and you must develop
your capabilities.” (Bruce Lee)
I close this column with two more quotes which relate to the topic of
“being ready:” Edward Gibbon observed: “The winds and waves are always
on the side of the ablest navigator.”
An English Proverb states: “Everyone must row with the oars he has.” It
is hoped you are ready, willing, and able to reach a fulfilling
destination.
On Pearl Harbor Day—may we take time to remember those from the past
who have served our country and those today who are always ready to
serve. We “Thank you!
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