History abounds with tales of experts who were convinced that
the ideas, plans, and projects of others could never be achieved.
However, accomplishment came to those who said, "I can make
it happen."
The Italian sculptor Agostino d'Antonio worked diligently on a
large piece of marble. Unable to produce his desired
masterpiece, he lamented, "I can do nothing with it." Other
sculptors also worked this difficult piece of marble, but to no
avail. Michelangelo discovered the stone and visualized the
possibilities in it. His "I-can-make-it-happen" attitude resulted in
one of the world's masterpieces - David.
The experts of Spain concluded that Columbus's plans to
discover a new and shorter route to the West Indies was virtually
impossible. Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand ignored the
report of the experts. "I can make it happen," Columbus
persisted. And he did. Everyone knew the world was flat, but not
Columbus. The Nina, the Pinta, the Santa Maria, along with
Columbus and his small band of followers, sailed to "impossible"
new lands and thriving resources.
Even the great Thomas Alva Edison discouraged his friend,
Henry Ford, from pursuing his fledgling idea of a motorcar.
Convinced of the worthlessness of the idea, Edison invited Ford
to come and work for him. Ford remained committed and
tirelessly pursued his dream. Although his first attempt resulted
in a vehicle without reverse gear, Henry Ford knew he could
make it happen. And, of course, he did.
"Forget it," the experts advised Madame Curie. They agreed
radium was a scientifically impossible idea. However, Marie
Curie insisted, "I can make it happen."
Let's not forget our friends Orville and Wilbur Wright. Journalists,
friends, armed forces specialists, and even their father laughed
at the idea of an airplane. "What a silly and insane way to spend
money. Leave flying to the birds," they jeered. "Sorry," the
Wright brothers responded. "We have a dream, and we can
make it happen." As a result, a place called Kitty Hawk, North
Carolina, became the setting for the launching of their
"ridiculous" idea.
Finally, as you read these accounts under the magnificent
lighting of your environment, consider the plight of Benjamin
Franklin. He was admonished to stop the foolish experimenting
with lighting. What an absurdity and waste of time! Why, nothing
could outdo the fabulous oil lamp. Thank goodness Franklin
knew he could make it happen. You too can make it happen!
