Indomitable:
That
cannot be subdued or overcome, as persons, will or courage, unconquerable: an
indomitable warrior (2015).
Have you ever caught yourself throwing a
pity party for and extensive period of time, and just bemoaning your fate? Heaven knows I can say I have been there,
done that, and got the free t-shirt. As
an almost 21 year member of the fire service I can say that it has been an
honor and a privilege to answer the call for service to help others in
need. Yet all too often, I have found
myself or colleagues, complaining of this, that, or the other thing (mainly of
a trivial nature). How is it that we can
have the best job in the world, yet still find fault? A common theme amongst firehouse mantras
begin with the words “I can’t”, or “they can’t make us do that!” Can’t make us do what? Our job? Guess again.
Last week, a friend and I were discussing
this common theme that plagues not only the fire service, but humanity in
general. My thoughts then turned to
those who would do anything to have my job (and probably never complain), but
circumstances prevent them from otherwise doing so. I am talking about those that have physical
or developmental disabilities. Annually,
the Special Olympics sponsors regional competition, and then converge every
four years for the Special Olympics Games held in a host nation. Some of the most heartwarming images of these
warriors are captured for posterity, with the intent of inspiring a
nation. I then asked my friend (whose
brother has cerebral palsy) if his sibling ever begrudges or complains about
his condition, and the answer was a resounding no.
Not only do we have the Special Olympians,
we also have the para-athletes (wheelchair bound or not), many whom have come
from the ranks of the combat military that served in the Middle East. The stories of these individuals are equally
inspiring. Then there is the non-athlete
such as my cousin who has been battling Multiple Sclerosis for several years
now. He told me one day that “I may not
have much strength in my left leg, but God is letting my right still work so I
can drive.” How inspiring is that?
Granted, there are many people with
similar circumstances who may not have as a positive outlook on life. However, in my humble opinion, there is a
common theme that runs amongst those that do.
For each gold medal won, or basketball sank (from the vantage point of a
wheelchair), or every gallant step taken, or car driven these true heroes show us
this: That they ungrudgingly have the courage to rise above their lot in life and
display the indomitable spirit of humanity to the tune of Never Say Can’t.
I have the greatest
amount of respect for these people, and use the example they set as a constant
reminder that I have nothing to complain about, and everything to be grateful
for, no matter what has come before, or lies ahead as the years march on. I leave you with this as food for thought.
In health and wellness,
Tim
References
Definition of Indomitable.
(2015). Dictionary Reference. Retrieved August 28th, 2015, from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/indomitable
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