Strength Beyond Ourselves

“The Little Engine that Could” is a children’s story we are all very familiar with. We have probably all recited “I think I can, I think I can” when faced with challenges and difficulties. Fortitude is the cardinal virtue which enables one to endure difficulties and pain for the sake of what is good. In sum, it makes us strong in the pursuit of goodness, helping us to resist temptations and overcome obstacles. 

Knowing that we have the inner capacity to live courageously is encouraging and gives one a natural hope. However, the really good news is that our loving Father never intended for us to go through life having to say “I think I can, I think I can.” Instead, when we live from God’s love and the grace of Baptism, we are empowered to hope in Christ’s strength to make us confident and even joyful in the face of trials, persecution, and even death. The ultimate good we live for is eternal life, to dwell forever in the household of God. 

May we all strive to live with this pure attitude about our life’s sufferings, knowing that we “can do all things in Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).