Words convey so many thoughts and inspirations. Today it is hard to imagine that the typewriter once was the more efficient substitute for hand written expression of ideas. Today we have the personal computer — no more white out or rough drafts and re-dos, just cut, paste, save and type again. The typewriter required a persistent application of patience and commitment, as does any achievement one strongly desires. Climbing the Great Wall of China was one of my mom’s aspirations. She accomplished it before turning sixty. She also accomplished her dream of earning a Masters in Literature with honors after turning forty, while raising three children. What is your dream? Persistence is foremost in achieving that which you strongly desire.
Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
– Calvin Coolidge
Persistence © Yvonne Cornell 2011
Is that photo of your Mom on the Great Wall?
And your reminiscences of typewriters and white out made me shudder as I remembered being a college English major using a manual return typewriter. I wonder if I would have gotten a better grade on my thesis if I’d been able to cut and paste with ease? Thanks for the reflection, Yvonne!
Yes, that is my mom at the top! This was her favorite quote and she had it mounted over her dressing closet when I was was growing up. I remember your typewriter and all the English papers! MOBY DICK, War & Peace, plus your senior thesis. We sure hacked away on these lovely non-automated writing machines.