A small band of determined inventors dreamt of the day that man would fly and were determined to make that dream a reality. Amongst these dreamers were the brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright.
In many ways, their quest was ridiculous as little was understood about aerodynamics. Birds flew, and kites flew, but precisely what made either possible was still largely a mystery.
However, this lack of knowledge didn't deter the Wrights. They had a dream. And somehow, although they didn't at first know how, they believed it could be done and were determined to learn whatever was necessary to make their dream of sustained, controlled flight a reality.
Their quest began in earnest in the winter of 1900, but it was not until December 17, 1903, that the first successful controlled flight was made. It lasted 12 seconds.
We have progressed a long way from that first 36.5 meters, 12-second flight. Not in their wildest dreams could Wilbur and Orville Wright have foreseen the progress that would be made in powered flight.
The Wright Brothers and the many others who have also dreamt big dreams teach us the benefit of perseverance. The Wrights, in particular, are an example of the power of belief and perseverance through mishaps, discomfort, accidents, and the countless hours spent studying and perfecting their flying machine. Quite frankly, they just refused to give up.
Today if you have a dream and have set some goals you are working to achieve, know that just because other people may think it's impossible or they don't understand what you are doing does not mean you are crazy or have a problem. Know that all things are possible with God and that He gives us strength to keep going and persevere.
Two bicycle mechanics with a dream changed our concept of travel and consequently our view of the world simply because they refused to give up or listen to those who said it couldn't be done.
The Inscription on the Wright memorial reads, "In commemoration of the conquest of the air by the brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright. Conceived by genius. Achieved by dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith."
There will always be two groups of people in the world: those who point out and talk about what may be possible and those who set out to achieve it. Today I encourage you to be the latter and determine to be someone who has dauntless resolution and unconquerable faith!
"Know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:2-4)
"You created earth and sky by your great power - by merely stretching out your arm! There is nothing you can't do." (Jeremiah 32:17 NIV)
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the amazing ability you have placed within us to persevere. Help me strengthen this resolve to keep going, and not give up. In Jesus Name Amen.