The ancient logs were still sturdy.  The derelict cabin had apparently been abandoned for many years.  The obvious signs of negligence were visible at every turn.  A child’s rag doll lay face down under the porch half consumed by the rot of carelessness and inattention.  Rust and decay were the only things still growing around this crumbling old home.  Many of the wooden shutters had let go and the steps were missing a few boards as I surveyed the ravages of time upon this once proud house.

        To the side of the cabin I find this rusty nail driven into a post and bent upwards.  A simple loop of wire hangs around the head of the nail like a hangman’s noose.  The uncomplicated knot oxidized by the elements and made rigid by the relentless passage of time has held its shape so long it would be easier to break than to bend.  I imagine once upon a time someone bending this nail and wrapping this wire to make a line to dry clothes on.  I wonder if they would have ever dreamed their simple knot would outlast them.  The knot still stands even though the house collapses.

        As I look at the knot and the nail I can not help smiling because suddenly I gain a little respect for this dynamic duo.  In spite of its harsh conditions the nail is still hanging in there.  The house may be crumbling but the knot tied so long ago continues to hold fast.  The song of the knot and the nail speak of the importance of determination, persistence and perseverance.  Few things are impossible to diligence and skill.  Consider the postage stamp: Its usefulness consists in the ability to stick to one thing till it gets there.  Never think that Heavens delays are denials.  Hold on; hold fast; hold out; never let go.  He that can have patience can have what he will.

        Never despair, never give up.  Even if things are falling to pieces around you, keep holding on.  Remember, the best time to hold on is when you reach the place where the average person gives up.  Persistence will give you the power to prevail over all problems.  Perseverance will transform every difficulty into advancement and every challenge into victory.  Life begins on the other side of despair.  When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.  Happiness is a choice; choose to hang on.

Something to think about:

• Courage is fear holding on a minute longer.

• The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man’s determination.

• Today’s mighty oak is just yesterday’s nut that held its ground.

• The trouble with most of us in trying times is that we quit trying.

• If Columbus had turned back, no one would have blamed him. No one would have remembered him either.

• Courage isn’t having the strength to go on—it’s going on when you don’t have the strength.

• Never despair, but if you do, work on in despair.

• It is impossible for that man to despair who remembers that his Helper is omnipotent.

Thankful for friends who tie a knot and hang on
Rickey Moore