Somewhere in my “clippings file” I have a story about opposition research on Andrew Jackson (7th U.S. president; born in the Carolinas before the Revolutionary war) as he was leaving the army and entering politics. According to the clipping a reporter went to his hometown and tracked down some childhood friends. The reporter asked why they thought Andy had been so successful. Was he smarter or stronger than the other boys in town?
“No” they said, “He just wouldn’t stay throwed.” The reporter asked for clarification.
The boys, now men, explained “When we wrestled, it was always for two out of three throws. But Andy just wouldn’t stay down! You could throw him 3 or even 4 times and he’d get up again and eventually throw you. That’s our Andy, he just wouldn’t stay throwed!”
What, you may be asking, does that have to do with resolutions? Whether I resolve to read my Bible all the way through this year, love my wife better this year, or take better care of my health this year I will get throwed.
- I will end up taking a phone call rather than finishing my quiet time some morning
- I will snap at my wife because I’m a million miles away in my mind
- I will skip my walk because it’s cold and wet outside
- Resolved. I will not stay throwed!
Happy New Year!
Pastor Scott
Grace Notes 