"At the Olympics, glory doesn't only go to those who win. Dorando Pietri was  in a state of collapse as he entered the stadium for the final yards of the1908 marathon. The Italian fell five times before an official helped him across the finish line. Pietri was disqualified but his indomitable spirit made him an international celebrity. A similar display of courage enabled Derek Redmond of Great Britain to finish the 400 meters in '92. Hobbled by a torn hamstring near the half-way point, Redmond hopped the rest of the way with the help of his father, Jim, who rushed from the stands to aid his son. And who could forget the sight of Tanzania's John Stephen Akhwari, his right leg bloody and bandaged, staggering into the stadium more than a hour behind the winner of the '68 marathon? 'My country did not send me to Mexico City to start the race,' he said. 'They sent me to finish the race.'"  News Article

Application: How many people have started their Taekwondo training, and for some reason quit prior to reaching their goals? I have seen this many times. One man, who had reached the time to test for his black belt, after years of practice, quit due to being fearful of testing. This is a tragic waste of time and effort. FINISH WHAT YOU BEGIN!  Stagger across the finish line; get help from a parent; or reach your goal, bruised and bloody; but FINISH WHAT YOU BEGIN!  Good stewardship of our time honors God, provides impetus for future victory, and challenges others to perform on a higher level.   Dr. Dennis E. McCain

 

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