I am always intrigued by other people’s stories of how they endured struggles and suffering, especially as we enter the second calendar year of a global pandemic. Sometimes these stories pop up in the most unexpected places; for example, last November, I was snoozing on my sofa during E’s People’s Choice Awards broadcast, and I am not exaggerating as I tell you that I literally woke up when Tyler Perry accepted his award because his story and analogy spoke to me, and I think it will speak to you also.
Perry talked about a situation in his house 18 years ago when he was confronted with exorbitant water bills. He was a single man living alone, so he found them perplexing and bordering on ridiculous. True to his character, he acted. The plan was to dig a well on his property; the expert put flags on various locations where he would dig to find water. Digging began, and no water was found. Perry was annoyed he had to pay this person to dig holes, and no water was being found.
He told him to stop working but later had a change of heart and called him back. Perry told him to dig until he found water. An 800-foot hole revealed no water; Perry told him to keep digging deeper. At over 1000 feet deep with nothing to show for it, he called it a day. The next day, Perry was prepared to tell him to stop when he finally found water. It was 4 inches away from where he left off the day before. Perry masterfully took this analogy of digging a water well to the personal “wells” people dig every day. He talked about the time, effort, and energy devoted to relationships, jobs, and dreams. Perry said to “just keep digging” even when it is difficult. He said that everyone is worthy of reaching their goals.
How does this apply to all of us? With self-reflection and focus, each of us need to keep digging until we achieve our priorities and goals. Will there be obstacles? Absolutely! But if we stop digging, we may never reap the benefits of all the hard work. Maybe we need a break from time to time, but the break should not be indefinite. No matter where you are with your relationships, goals, work, or faith, the idea of continuing to dig is one that can be embraced—especially in 2021. And do not forget to practice self-care and self-love in the process; life is difficult enough, sometimes you are your only (and best) cheerleader. So, cheers to you and your personal digging efforts in 2021!
About the Author
Wendi Oliveros is a freelance writer, sports fan, and resident of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. In addition to writing, she tries to make time for reading and exercising. She is married and has two children, 14 and 12 years of age.
