The Saga of Will and Fern: The Power of Encouragement 551.5
Two frogs named Will and Fern weren’t looking where they were going and fell into a pit. At first, they thought it would be easy to jump out, but after numerous failed attempts they were getting desperate. A crowd of animals gathered around to watch.
The consensus of the onlookers was there was no way either one could jump high enough to get out, so they urged the two to accept their fate.
The harder the trapped frogs jumped, the more the crowd yelled at them to surrender. Finally, Will fell back to the bottom and gave up. Fern refused to quit. With one mighty last try, she leaped out of the pit.
The other animals were amazed. One asked her how she could keep trying despite their discouraging taunts.
Fern was shocked. "What do you mean? I’m a bit deaf. I thought you were rooting for me. I couldn’t have done it without you."
Patty, a resident of a transitional housing program, gave a printed version of this story to my wife Anne. After a long period of homelessness and drug abuse, Patty wanted us to understand that positivism and support can inspire those who seem down and out to get up and out.
Patty said she escaped her own pit of despair because caring people at the housing program gave her the faith and confidence she needed to jump just a little harder.
There are lots of ways to help others. We can educate them, feed them, and house them. But we can also change their lives if we encourage and empower them.
This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.
Comments
Oh wow! I have actually become one of your ardent readers. Thank you and may the Lord's light always shine upon you.
Yes, a little encouragement goes a long way!
Posted by: Erum Qayyum | January 31, 2008 6:27 PM
I work for a CA County probation department. This is the type of encouragement that kids and adults on probation need to hear. They don't have to be resigned to a life of crime, but can, if they want to, take advantage of the programs offered and grow up to be responsible adults.
Posted by: Molly | February 1, 2008 8:02 AM
I develop mentoring programs for children at-risk, so it's a great blessing to read about the articles in your site. Keep it up!
Posted by: Tiffany Tang | February 2, 2008 12:25 AM
Today's commentary, re: the two frogs stuck in a hole, inspired me to continue receiving your organization's newsletters. It simply moved me, without evoking the feeling that I'm being spoken down to.
I look forward to your words, Michael, but I must be honest: On occasion, I become somewhat uncomfortable, reticent when I receive them for fear that somehow, I've become deficient.
Professionally, I'm a hypnotherapist and understand these dynamics in my clients; yet, they also arise in me.
I will share what moved me the most about these little frogs: They were anthropomorphized and non-threatening, like cherry flavored cough syrup. It was comfortable ingesting them and their lesson, without the spectre that I'm taking something "good for me".
I appreciate that you are driven to help others. In my modest life and practice, I operate with this mission: That on my way to G_d, the world was better because of my birth, though I be anonymous. I am careful to package what I offer so not to have it thrown away because I appear "better" than those who are offered it. I've found this factor pervasive in those who have had less than a wonderful, caring environment. The feelings that you are never good enough, that you've done something wrong AGAIN, that you're always a day late and a dollar short- these are feelings that shouldn't have to be- but these exist in vast pockets of the population. I call it the "Resentment factor", and it is inherent in any communique.
I shall be frank: When I here less of Michael and more of the lessons or parables, I feel more receptive.
Please continue to share words of character shrouded in frog's skin, eagle's feathers, or turtle's shells.
Be well and much success to your work.
Posted by: Angelae | February 4, 2008 11:49 AM
Anyway
Realize that when you stand for what is right, you may find yourself alone.
Stand Anyway!
You are not alone, God is with you.
In refusing to compromise your integrity, you may miss out on all the world has to offer.
Refuse Anyway!
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?
By Daring to be a Daniel, You may find yourself thrown
in a "den", face to face with the lions of opposition, deception, and rejection.
Dare Anyway!
God will give His angels charge over you.
Bravely stepping out to effect change, like Dr. King, Gandhi or the Apostle Paul could cost you your life.
Step Out Anyway!
Jesus says: "I am the Resurrection and the Life" You Will Live Again!
Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ...Not Even Death.
The pain of devastating circumstances can make it difficult to thank God.
Thank Him Anyway!
The Bible says: "In everything, give thanks." Christ promises that He will never leave or forsake us. He's with us during each trial and will see us through.
Yosef M. Negosé
Posted by: Anonymous | February 6, 2008 7:46 AM
I used this story at our county PTA annual Founders Day Dinner to express to our members the importance of our supporting one another and the wonderful network of other members that we have. I told them that I hoped that they, like me, had those people I could count on to encourage, inspire and reinspire me when I need it most. Thank you for all of the wonderful stories and quotes. I use them often at the monthly meetings as our inspiration for the evening. I am always happy to hear that they are appreciated. I have received your newsletter for years and am still impressed by the thought provoking information that I share with others often.
Posted by: Mary Jo | February 8, 2008 5:15 PM