Because

“I think I can” were the words immortalized by The Little Engine That Could and words I read more often than I can estimate.

Since our four children were born three years apart each reading was for a different audience.

Now as I wistfully think about the message, i realize I need it myself.

Perhaps it is the seemingly unending winter or perhaps the winter of my life that has been encouraging my recent negativity.

Because now I must admit, I appear to have translated the famed message to “I don’t Think I can” rather than the inspirational affirmative.

I have found solace in the hostile weather prohibiting convenient travel until i realized it was just another excuse.

I used the fear of Influenza A as an excuse for being even more reclusive until I awakened with a jolt as I observed others equally aged and infirm join a tech group. All were eager to participate and learn the nuances of today’s digital challenges.

When Mellissa sent me her travel itinerary, I read in awe about her courage and yes, imagination. My young friend’s plans include volunteering at a bee farm in Japan for several months, and I thought briefly of my chronic and unreasonable fear of the black flies in Vermont.

Then the long awaited proofs for my third paperback “ JUST A LOVE STORY” arrive, and the lyrics return to “I Think I Can.”

Because I have and must continue to do so as long as God allows.