Press On

“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. The slogan Press On! has solved and always will solve the problems of the
human race.”

Many families have mottos, mission statements, value statements and goals. Our does not.
Our lack of something formal does not negate that fact that we are and always have been a group
of wonderfully strong, talented and committed individuals. As I begin day one, a blog about family, focus, fitness and future I find the quote above, by President Calvin  Coolidge, reflects the values of our family very well.

We are truly a family who has survived successfully through persistence. Yes we have
intellect, Samantha went to the US Air Force Academy and is a leader among her peers, Abigail
is at Mississippi State and doing well. Jeff and I have successful careers in technology and
nursing. None of this would have been possible without persistence. Sam took the physical
fitness test three times and the SATs three times, to meet the qualifications for USAFA. I
graduated with my bachelors at 29, after marriage, with two children and time enlisted in the Air
Force. Jeff enlisted in the AF, worked for Simplex, worked in sales, and is now a successful State
Dept employee traveling the world. We continue to press on...day after day. We focus on what
is important, use our tools God has provided and have determined to work harder and better
every day.

When Sam left for USAFA, our family changed. Our team of 4 became 3 and we struggled
a bit with the strain. In order to succeed, to persevere, and to find meaning in the new life we
had ahead of us, I began to run. I start with a 5K, progressed to a 10K, a half marathon, and
then every year Sam was at USAFA I ran the Marine Corps Marathon. I ran for Fisher House,
as a mom and officer, supporting those who have served and had families needed a respite.
We raised money, supported each other, stayed in shape, and I realized that my family and I
were part of something much bigger than our small team of 4, we were part of a large family of
military and community supporters. I was able to run, not from some amazing talent, but from
strength within me, through practice, perseverance and a determination to finish. Through this I
made a difference.

As Abby entered her freshman year at MSU she was challenged. Classes were hard, the
routine of studying was a struggle, no longer were old habits going to make it. So Abby dug in,
opened the books, met some amazing friends to help support her in a new city and school, and
she persevered. She is proof that perseverance pays off. I cannot wait to see her fly higher over
the next few years.

Sam too has persevered. She entered marriage and motherhood with grace and
dedication. She is an AF officer balancing the demands of having a military spouse, young
daughters, demanding career and a big move to Oklahoma. She does this some days by just
getting up and out the door with two girls in daycare, and other days with early mornings and
quick stints at exercising and caring for herself before the girls awake. It’s a life built of passion,
commitment to family, and above all perseverance. For in this, Sam’s talents shine!

As this blog begins, and hopefully perseveres as well, I welcome you to consider what it
takes for you to persevere. What makes you determined to continue on with excellence. I loo
forward to your insights into what motivates and empowers you as you continue on this journey
called life. Press on!

-K