Beginnings

January 6, 2024

It is hard to begin again when we are met with failure or defeat each time we start. After so many tries, many of us give up and do not begin again. When I think of how hard it is to begin again, I am reminded of "IF," the famous poem by Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936). One line in the second stanza is of particular importance:

"[If you can] watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
”And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools."

Kipling's answer to defeat, even in our most profound life purpose and aspirations, is to keep trying, to keep building. The image of worn-out tools signifies that they have been used many times, but even in their dilapidated condition, they are what we have to work with, so we use them. Our soul uses the means at hand.

Giving up may seem to be the only alternative, yet how many times have we been so close to achieving our dream but didn't know it?

Inquiry: How often have you had to rebuild from the ashes? How many new beginnings have you had? How many of those got traction?

Dear God,

Make me thankful for my worn-out tools. Amen

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