History abounds with tales of experts who were convinced
that the ideas, plans, and projects of others could never be achieved. However,
accomplishment came to those who said, "I can make it happen."
The Italian sculptor Agostino d'Antonio worked diligently on
a large piece of marble. Unable to produce his desired masterpiece, he
lamented, "I can do nothing with it." Other sculptors also worked
this difficult piece of marble, but to no avail. Michelangelo discovered the
stone and visualized the possibilities in it. His
"I-can-make-it-happen" attitude resulted in one of the world's
masterpieces - David.
The experts of Spain
concluded that Columbus 's plans to discover a
new and shorter route to the West Indies was
virtually impossible. Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand ignored the report of
the experts. "I can make it happen," Columbus persisted. And he did. Everyone knew
the world was flat, but not Columbus .
The Nina, the Pinta, the Santa Maria , along with
Columbus and
his small band of followers, sailed to "impossible" new lands and
thriving resources.
Even the great Thomas Alva Edison discouraged his friend,
Henry Ford, from pursuing his fledgling idea of a motorcar. Convinced of the
worthlessness of the idea, Edison invited Ford
to come and work for him. Ford remained committed and tirelessly pursued his
dream. Although his first attempt resulted in a vehicle without reverse gear,
Henry Ford knew he could make it happen. And, of course, he did.
"Forget it," the experts advised Madame Curie.
They agreed radium was a scientifically impossible idea. However, Marie Curie
insisted, "I can make it happen."
Let's not forget our friends Orville and Wilbur Wright.
Journalists, friends, armed forces specialists, and even their father laughed
at the idea of an airplane. "What a silly and insane way to spend money.
Leave flying to the birds," they jeered. "Sorry," the Wright
brothers responded. "We have a dream, and we can make it happen." As
a result, a place called Kitty Hawk ,
North Carolina , became the
setting for the launching of their "ridiculous" idea.
Finally, as you read these accounts under the magnificent
lighting of your environment, consider the plight of Benjamin Franklin. He was
admonished to stop the foolish experimenting with lighting. What an absurdity
and waste of time! Why, nothing could outdo the fabulous oil lamp. Thank
goodness Franklin
knew he could make it happen. You too can make it happen!
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