Somebody Said

Growing up in the post war years of Korea, life for me was pretty good. My Dad's work ethic and income provided us with everything we needed and most of what we wanted. But the greatest of his gifts was a "stay-at-home" mom.

From Dad I learned how to whistle, work on cars, and the value of being a good team player through organized sports. Mom taught how to sew, keep house and cook as well a love for the fine arts. She also kept me encouraged along the way when tasks seemed impossible. Anytime I said, "I can't", she knew I could if I just tried, constantly reciting her favorite poem. Just recently it was that very poem that gave me the courage to overcome the fear of failure.

Having proposed a full six day project, my building director gave me the go ahead. While she made sure I had the necessary supplies, I coordinated the plan around several other workers crucial to my success. However, I was nearly frightened out of my wits when Sandy gave me two hours notice that I had to have things completed in five, not the original six days, and that I had to start three days early. Well, in the middle of my panic attack I heard my mother's voice echoing her poem I title "Somebody Said".

Early the next morning I place a framed copy of this poem on the 'Queen Bee's" desk attacking the challenge like cloned triplets. I'm proud to announce I got the job done in record setting time with superior quality.

I've only heard the author's name once and have long since forgotten it. But, here are the words I always hear when things look impossible that I hope you will print for yourself to remember when you put your foot in your mouth and commit to a difficult task;

"Somebody Said"

Somebody said that it couldn't be done
but he with a chuckle replied
that he would be one who wouldn't say so
at least until he had tried.

So he started right in with the trace of a grin
when there was fear, he hid it.
And took the thing that couldn't be done
and did it!"

Submitted by Anonymous

Believe In Yourself