Tag Archive for: perseverance

Not Hidden, Just Unseen

Our walk along the West Highland Way was simply magnificent.
Reuniting as former missionaries of the Belgium Netherlands Mission, our walk had everything – beautiful scenery, amazing views, sun, rain, silly moments aplenty, great people, sheep galore, even a feral goat!
There was just one thing missing on our trip, spotting a Highland coo!
Tourist shops were bursting with Highland coos on every item imaginable, except the trail, where they were nowhere to be found.
Constantly, we kept our eyes peeled, scanning distant fields and searching for the elusive coo’s.
I recall debating whether a dark blob in the far-off field might be one.
But alas, nothing. No hairy beast. No curved horns. No majestic bovine presence.
It became a bit of a running joke: “Still no coos!”

Kilmahog!

Then, on the drive home, something nudged my memory: Kilmahog.
I’d been there some years before.
And sure enough, as we pulled into the car park, crowds of tourists were gathering.
Highland coo’s.
Large, calm, shaggy and very real.
And I thought: Isn’t that just like life?
In a similar manner, so many of us may be searching for something meaningful, truth, purpose, peace and direction in life.
Many scan the horizon, hoping to spot something that feels right, but never quite seem to find it.
But when someone knows where to look and gently points the way, in a fleeting moment, everything can change.
The restored gospel of Jesus Christ is like that.
It’s not hidden. It’s not exclusive. It’s available to all, but often people don’t know where to find it.
In Jeremiah 29:13 we read “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”
Sometimes it just takes someone who knows the way, or remembers where the coos are, to point the rest of us in the right direction.
And that’s exactly what we as missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do every day, point people in the right direction.
Who could you lovingly point in the right direction this week?

Small Swarms, Big Lessons

Yesterday, I set out to walk the 13-mile trail around Loch Leven as part of my training for next month’s West Highland Way adventure and Mary’s Meals.
I’d never walked this far before in one go.
However, it didn’t quite go as planned!
About a mile in, I reached for my phone to take a photo… only to realise I’d left it in the car.
The choice was simple: press on without it or turn back… I turned back.
So, before I’d even really begun, my 13-mile walk had become a 15-mile one.
Lesson #1: preparation matters.
Back on track, the next surprise wasn’t the rain or the wind, but the sky, it wasn’t blue – it was black, with swarms of tiny flying creatures.
At first, I thought they were midges.
But a kindly old gentleman wearing a midge net (he came prepared!) informed me they were in fact Mayflies, millions of them.
They got everywhere: in my nose, ears, eyes. Yuk.
Soldiering on, my baseball cap became my swatting device, fending off thousands.
The first three miles and the final three were the worst.
The “in-between” parts of the walk were very enjoyable, filled with beautiful spots and moments of peaceful bliss.
By the time I got back to the car, nearly 5 hours later, I had discovered a new pain in my left foot, a good measure of all over stiffness, and a few unexpected memories.
But I had done it! Fifteen miles under my belt, and another step closer to being ready for the West Highland Way.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on the day, I was reminded of a scripture:
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” – Galatians 6:9
Sometimes our efforts are met with unexpected swarms, setbacks, and small irritations.
And sometimes in life, the walk is longer, harder, and more uncomfortable than we had planned.
I kept walking and in the middle of the struggle, there were beautiful peace filled moments, and I found a new strength I didn’t know I had.
My hope is that as we keep walking, through all the swarms and setbacks, we’ll become a little stronger, a little more patient, and a little more prepared for whatever lies ahead.
How do you handle life’s unexpected swarms?
PS Donate here for Marys Meals… https://www.marysmeals.org.uk/fundraising…

He Calms Storms

I’m no expert on global markets, but this last week has been a torrid one for the world with sweeping tariff plans and many of us scratching our heads and asking what is going on?
Watching the news I see chaos unfold, day after day, right before my eyes.
There is a heck of a lot of noise, all swirled together in a whirlwind of 21st-century geopolitics.
My thoughts turned back to our service in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Many of our missionaries wore little wristbands with the following letters inscribed – WWJD.
In other words What Would Jesus Do?
I found myself asking that question early this morning, and how might Jesus Christ respond to all of this.
Jesus lived in a world not unlike ours – occupied, politically fraught, filled with division, economic hardship, and many leaders vying for control.

A Peacemaker

In my mind as I think about Him, He was first and foremost a peacemaker, not a panic maker.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you” (John 14:27).
He calmed the stormy seas.
He also taught that “the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32).
Truth is not merely political positioning; it is clarity, honesty and transparency.
More than anything, He ministered to the one, healed the poor and uplifted the outcast.
In His economy, “the last shall be first, and the first last” (Matthew 20:16).
Jesus would see people, rather than percentages.
In all of this mayhem, I’ve asked myself – who benefits from all of this?
Jesus would serve, not dominate.
I am mindful most of all of His prophecy in Matthew 24:7 regarding the last days – “Nation shall rise against nation”.
In His great intercessory prayer, He pled with the Father that “they all may be one” (John 17:21).
Jesus tore down walls, bridged divides, and showed us the power of collaboration and mutual respect.
He taught patience, perseverance, and hope.
He didn’t play a 90-day game chasing popularity polls or political wins, but rather His view is an eternal one, built over lifetimes of love, sacrifice, and service.
He calls us all to be peacemakers.
And to remember that real power doesn’t come from political moves – but from love, truth, and trust in Him.
When the world rages, will we still follow Him?

The Power of Opposition

“Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors” – African Proverb
I have learned that winter is just as necessary as summer.
Work is as good for us as rest.
Uphill is just as important as downhill.
Life includes some sunshine and rain, success and failure, as well as good and evil.
There is a natural law of opposites at play in all of our lives.
Life has taught me that there is “an opposition in all things” – 2 Nephi 2:11
The struggles, adversity, difficulties that we encounter are oftentimes the most powerful teachers we face in life.
I am certain too that discouragement will be a visitor for all of us at some point in life.
Misery can set in, and for some we can get stuck in the mud pretty quickly.
Difficulties can keep us alert and on our toes.
They teach us to fight and prevent us from being over-confident.
Indeed, sometimes we are compelled to be humble.
We can only truly recognise joy because we have also encountered sorrow.
There is growth in opposition
Many times, I’ve learned the hard way, that in every negative, there is always a positive!
“There is no growth without challenge, no triumph without struggle, and no joy without sorrow.” – unknown.
And so, rather than resisting opposition, we can choose to embrace it as a necessary part of our growth.
Setbacks too, can prepare us for something greater.
The hard times can refine us, and the struggles can strengthen us.
Each challenge we face is not a roadblock, but a stepping stone, an opportunity to become wiser, stronger, and more compassionate.
So, when the storms come (and they will), stand firm.
When the road gets steep, take another step.
When darkness falls, remember that morning always comes.
With faith, perseverance, and an open heart, we will not only endure but thrive.
The law of opposition is not meant to break us, it is meant to build us.
And through it all, we learn the greatest truth of all: joy is worth the journey.
How has opposition in your life shaped you into the person you are today?

Step by Step

An old proverb states that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
To achieve something, you need to start with a small step.
In preparation for the walk with Mary’s Meals in May, for some months now I have been putting in many daily steps.
Recently, I purchased a new pair of walking boots and whilst breaking them in, one boot caused some discomfort around my right ankle.
Starting a new adventure often comes with initial discomfort or challenges.
In life, we progress on our journey by taking each day one step at a time, repeating the process consistently until we arrive at our destination.
I love this verse found in the holy scriptures – “It is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize.” Mosiah 4:27
In other words, we don’t need to rush; we just need to keep a steady pace and head in the right direction.
Likewise in life, our focus should be on doing our best, taking one step at a time.
Each step, no matter how small, moves me forward.
Some days, the journey feels effortless, and it is no problem at all.
Other days however, progress is slow, and the weight of the steps press down on me.
But what matters most in those moments, is that I keep going.
What felt like a long distance some weeks ago, now seems much easier indeed.
Training for the walk with Mary’s Meals has reinforced this lesson for me.
The cumulative effect of daily effort builds resilience, strength, and an inner confidence that I can succeed.
Small, consistent actions, whether in physical endurance, spiritual growth, or personal development, lead to meaningful results over time.
This principle applies to all aspects of life.
Whether we’re striving for a personal goal, strengthening relationships, or deepening our faith, steady, deliberate effort brings lasting change.
So, as I prepare for the miles ahead, I remind myself that success is not found in speed, but in perseverance.
Every step taken with purpose can bring each of us closer to where we want to be.
Take that small step towards your success.
What small steps can you take today that will lead you closer to your goal?

Steady Effort

Since returning to Scotland in the summer, I’ve had a few projects on the go.
One of them, writing a daily devotional book has dominated a lot of my time…and I mean lots!
I’m especially grateful through for a number of returned missionaries who have helped in the due process, gathering content, editing and keeping me on track.
I’ve particularly enjoyed the regular check ins with our Project Manager – Emily Hodder, where we have talked about progress being made!
Thank you one and all!
I’ve learned that writing a book is no easy task, but hopefully in the end it will be worth it.

Do one small thing

Steady consistent effort is key, simply by doing one small thing.

By embracing the principle of “by the inch, it’s a cinch; by the yard, it’s hard,” the task became not only manageable but deeply fulfilling.
Tackling a daunting task all at once can feel overwhelming for all of us, but dividing it into smaller, achievable portions has made it much easier.
Each day, I committed to writing or editing a small portion.
Sometimes a paragraph, other times just refining a sentence.
These small but steady steps have brought me closer to my goal.
A few minutes of focused effort might seem insignificant in the moment, but over time, these moments compound into something quite remarkable.
As the days add up, so does my progress.
I’ve learned that writing a book becomes less about monumental bursts of creativity and more about cultivating a rhythm of perseverance.
I have also learned that first drafts are often messy!
Yet, a book grows word, by word and eventually they all add up!
Now we are in touching distance of having a final manuscript to submit to the publishers, hopefully by the end of this year.
This idea of breaking big goals into smaller steps—applies to more than just writing.
Whether you’re tackling a fitness goal, starting a new career, or organising your home, the power of steady effort is transformative.
My biggest lesson: Daily effort, no matter how small, can transform daunting challenges into achievable successes.
The journey to write this book has reminded me that success isn’t about grand gestures but daily perseverance.
What goal could you achieve if you simply took it one inch at a time?

Grit

It’s been over 7 years since Talmage last walked through our front door with his missionary companion.
This time he had a different companion, his wife Marianne.
Together they’re enjoying a belated honeymoon in Scotland.
Over the years we have kept in touch sporadically and so it was truly delightful to reconnect at the weekend.
Reflecting upon our time together and our discussion, I was reminded of Angela Duckworths book “Grit, The Power Of Passion And Perseverance”.
In her book, grit is defined as “passion and perseverance for long-term and meaningful goals”.
When you have the inner strength of grit, you don’t give up on the things that you want.
Possessing grit has become an increasingly rare yet invaluable trait.
Someone who embodies this quality, coupled with determination, perseverance, and resilience, is a beacon of inspiration.
And that is Talmage – in a nutshell!

Podcasting – but more!

Talmage’s passion is podcasting.
But he is not just a podcaster.
He is a storyteller, a learner, and a teacher.
It was clear that his love for podcasting goes beyond mere enjoyment.
Talmage has a commitment to his audience and to his craft.
As he shared some stories it was evident that true success is not measured by numbers but by the impact he creates, with his guests, one episode at a time.
Podcasting, with its unique blend of storytelling, education, and entertainment, is no easy feat.
For someone who loves this medium, grit is not just an advantage; it is a necessity.
It demands consistency, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
It is this kind of grit that fuels Talmage’s determination to tackle the technical challenges of recording, editing, and producing content week after week.
His perseverance was evident in the consistency with which he produces content, always striving for improvement, no matter how many obstacles he faces along the way.
He regularly interviews returned missionaries and other guests who share insights and stories of struggle, success, and self-discovery.
Look up and enjoy his next episode of “𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒅” wherever you pick up your podcasts.
Enjoy Scotland the pair of you – and come back soon!
How can you stay gritty?

Too daunting?

Have there been moments in your life when you didn’t achieve your full potential because the task at hand seemed just too daunting?
Daunting: “making you feel slightly frightened or worried about your ability to achieve something.”
For many, to serve a mission is a daunting task!
After a few days in the mission field, as the new arrivals look forward to the next 18 or 24 months of service, the challenge ahead, the future before them, can look very daunting!
Discouragement can come as quickly they realise the difficulties and challenges of a new culture, a new language, and new daily routines.
Trials, obstacles, tribulation, and opposition are daily occurrences for every missionary!
That said, time and time again, I have experienced that these young men and women are more than equal to the task!
Day by day, step by step, the daunting task ultimately becomes achievable.
As they search for their best selves, their hearts begin to change.

Adjusting

Adjusting to missionary life takes time.
What may appear initially to be a daunting challenge, becomes easier to manage over time, as each missionary consistently strives to adjust and change, eventually overcoming their insecurities.
It may not come as quickly or in the format they desire, but answers come, and change happens.
“That which we persist in doing becomes easier to do, not that the nature of the thing has changed but that our power to do has increased.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic, it is vital to any endeavour.
And how do they change?
It comes from deep inside and an increase in faith through personal religious habits such as, obedience, discipline, prayer, scripture study, and service as they draw closer to Jesus Christ and put their trust in Him.
And of course, with great help from their trainers! Sometimes even vice versa!
In time, each missionary moves forward with a greater conviction and vitality, determined to succeed as their attitude also changes.
“Remember, a good attitude produces good results, a fair attitude fair results, a poor attitude poor results. We each shape our own life, and the shape of it is determined largely by our attitude.” M. Russell Ballard
How do you overcome something that appears to be daunting?

Try Again!

Learning something new and making changes in your life can bring its challenges.
Are you yearning for improvement or growth?
Have you tried, failed, and then tried again?
Why me? Again?
Well, I don’t know ‘why you’. But, if it makes you feel any better, it happens to me too!
Sometimes, things just go wrong.
One of my favourite poems on this subject was written by William Edward Hickson
‘Tis a lesson you should heed–
Try again;
If at first you don’t succeed,
Try again.
Then your courage should appear;
For if you will persevere,
You will conquer, never fear,
Try again.
Once or twice though you should fail,
If you would at last prevail,
Try again.
If we strive, ’tis no disgrace
Though we did not win the race–
What should you do in that case?
Try again.
If you find your task is hard.
Try again;
Time will bring you your reward,
Try again;
All that other folk can do,
Why with patience should not you?
Only keep this rule in view,
Try again.
As we try, persevere, and help others to do the same.
“Try and keep on trying until that which seems difficult becomes possible—and that which seems only possible becomes habit and a real part of you.” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
Perseverance and not giving up is not some monumental, herculean act, it is simply a series of baby steps that you just keep taking, every day.
The picture is of Emma Bair, teaching me a new pose, whilst waiting on our new arrivals at Schiphol.
I think she found me quite trying!? 😉
What do you need to keep trying at today?

Learning takes practice.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤?
Growing up in Scotland in the 1970’s was a fun place to be.
I was oblivious to many of the challenges of the era, but I do recall one occasion at Primary school when I was around 9 years old, that I’ve never forgotten.
An announcement was made in class that a recorder group would be starting in school and that anyone interested to learn how to play should come along to the next practice.
I had grown up listening to my dad playing regularly on his chromatic mouth organ and like him I wanted to do something musical – he always seemed to be having so much fun!
The day came and along I went.
I was given a small descant recorder and duly started practicing in the weeks that followed.
Through lots of lessons, my playing began to improve, and I learned to read music too.

Lessons Learned

I began to understand that
  • Growth and development take time.
  • Learning takes practice.
As time passed by, one day I recall being picked upon and bullied by several boys.
“You’re just a big namby pamby, a big sissy” they’d say to me, along with a few other belittling terms.
Why?
I was the only boy, playing the recorder amongst a group of around 15 girls.
Despite the regular taunts, insulting and smart-alecky remarks, I continued playing the recorder throughout my school years and developed a resilient spirit to the comments.
Playing simple melodies, always brought joy to my youthful heart. And it still does!
In later years, in a little tender mercy, I discovered that like me, Monic too played the recorder.
Sometimes in life we have to persevere when opposition comes our way.
Oftentimes, its listening to the feelings of our heart, that can overcome the challenge of the day.
What challenge might you face today?
What does your heart think?