This last Columbus Day, I spoke in the Morning Roll Call Podcast on the lessons we can learn from Christopher Columbus. Suppose you are someone who feels that he is a negative figure from history and that there is nothing positive we can learn from him. In that case, I encourage you to watch these videos by Prager U and Kenneth Copeland Ministries with David Barton. These videos will provide accurate historical context about Christopher Columbus that may refresh your memory of things we used to learn in school.

My intention is not to specifically discuss this explorer but rather to discuss an essential characteristic for which we remember him.

We all face times when barriers to our goals are present, and we feel like we may never achieve our dreams or ambitions. We set out with a particular plan, but as our plan is challenged, we face the options of either pushing through or quitting. Unfortunately, quitting has become a default position for many people in modern society. Things get hard or uncomfortable, and we simply stop.

Christopher Columbus was known for facing challenges and barriers to his vision. He was turned down and mocked for years. Through these challenges, though, he never gave up, and he was finally presented with the opportunity that led to him being a household name today. Even on the famous voyage that led to the discovery of the New World, mutiny loomed a possibility for his crew. Yet, despite all these challenges, his perseverance and steadfastness led to his landing in the present-day Bahamas.

Perseverance, persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success, is a fundamental quality in anyone who will be “successful” in any arena. Law Enforcement Officers, beginning in the Police Academy, are taught about pushing through in Use of Force scenarios. “Stay in the fight” is a common mantra drilled into law enforcement officers from the earliest days of entering this career.

If you are in law enforcement in a rural community, I can guarantee that you have repeatedly heard the statement that it is “just you” if things go wrong. There is an understanding that no matter how bad things go on a call, there is an expectation that you will stay in the fight and persevere until other law enforcement officers can get to you. We also know it can be a long time in some rural police departments and sheriff’s offices.

This week, I want you to consider the idea of perseverance and the fundamental law enforcement training you received. I then challenge you to think about other areas of your life where you don’t persist. I know for me, the idea of tenacity and persistence comes naturally in the law enforcement environment. However, so many other areas of my life are not so natural.

We all face difficulties in relationships, with our kids, our schedules, and maybe even with a business or side project. It can be easy for us to feel overwhelmed and, at the moment, simply give up on a dream, goal, or mission.

I encourage you in the weeks ahead to step back and see where perseverance could be just the right tool to help you push through the boundaries that have risen around you.

This Blog Post Appeared first at OnTheBlueLine.com. All Rights Reserved. October 2022

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