One Inch

I was cutting fabric into 1 inch strips a couple of weeks ago and I was reminded of a lesson I learned in college: To accomplish a goal I have to do things until I feel like I can't do it any longer, then, I have to do it longer and then I'll be done. In college this applied to everything from weekly assignments to entire semesters. I knew if I wanted to graduate with a B.S. degree, I would have to put in long hours and suffer-lots. I knew the goal would be worth it, but the practical day-to-day was very draining. In my last semester of college I took 21 credits because there were 2 classes that were only offered in the spring and I didn't want to waste another year-so I struggled. I know, as my mom can attest to, that I truly didn't think I could go on another minute, much less another semester. Everyday was a struggle. Every piece of homework was painful. I complained and cried more that semester than any other. Through all of the pain, I learned that I just had to keep going. I learned that even if I didn't think I could do it, but kept working at it daily, I would eventually finish. The end-result was the first Bachelors degree in the history of my family!
The same theory applies to the 1-inchers I was cutting. The 2 yards of fabric in front of me was so intimidating and so overwhelming and the progress was so s-l-o-w that I didn't think I would ever be done. After an hour of cutting my arm was sore. By the end of the second hour of cutting I was cursing and wanted to give up; but I keep going through the motions and eventually I was done. I worked and struggled and cursed my stupidity for thinking I could do this project in the first place, but I finished. (The sewing of the pieces back together was another test of perseverance, but that is a story for another time!)
I think anybody can start something. Anybody can take a few classes or cut up the first 1/2 yard of fabric; anybody can accomplish a task for a short amount of time. The difference is the people who can see past the discomfort of right now, keep working daily, and finish. The people who complete a task without giving up or loosing interest or 'changing their mind' are the ones who are the true winners in life. They are the ones that can accomplish great things. They are the ones we look up to and want to be like. From school to fabric I know my goals can be accomplished if I work until I can't do it any more-then do it more and finally I win the prize.