Believe

“We are what we believe we are.”

– C.S. Lewis

(1898-1963) Author/Educator

I knew a young man who had all the qualities of being a very bright student.  He loved to read and had read far beyond he grade level.  He had a wonderful ability to figure things out quickly and see details that many others missed.  However, in school he was a very poor student and was even held back a grade.  If you asked what the problem was he would look you in the eye and quickly say, "It's because I'm stupid.  I can't help it."  The problem was he believed that to be true.

                This boy, about 12 or 13 years old at the time, had parents that told him since he was small that he was stupid.  When he got to school and these problems showed themselves in his inability to get homework done or work well with others, rather than looking into what he could do, the school sent home notes telling his parents what he could not do.  This, of course, only reinforced the image that he was stupid and therefore the boy accepted it as reality.  As with many, he believed what he was told.

                Many of us are good at some things and not so good at others.  I have always loved to read and write, however, I was (and still am) not so good at math.  Growing up I was always criticized for my lack of skill at math but never encouraged about my reading and writing.  I know many of you have had the same experience.  As a society we got into the thinking that we must work at our weaknesses and ignore our strengths.  This is not only untrue, but hurtful to the person involved.

                Do you have a young person in your life that believes they are less than they should be?  Encourage them to be great.  Encourage and build on the areas that they excel at and help them manage the areas of weakness.  I am not saying to ignore an area of weakness, but by encouraging them to be the best at what they are best at, you help them improve in all areas of life.

                Get a young person to believe they are a winner and you will have a winner.  Help them to believe they can succeed in life and you will have a success.  We are what we believe we are, therefore believe the best and you will be and have the best.

                You matter!  You matter to the world and to yourself.  Remember to be your best, love God, have good manners, achieve the unknown and change your world.

John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Life Coach and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at http://www.growthcenter.net or www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2014 John Patrick Hickey