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By Frank J. Buchman Difficulty, But Still Trying “If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.” The neighbor rancher made that synopsis at the county fair as we were pouting about again missing the flag in the flag race. That really wasn’t any consolation, but it did make for an excuse in our mind, if we had to justify our low ability, were another to jest us. Nobody did, and they seldom do with the exception of our inefficiencies when riding with English tack. Then, it seems constant, bleacher-seated-authorities holler: “You’re in the wrong diagonal.” Clarifying those who have no clue the meaning; “correct diagonal” for the expert horseback riders, with clingy-pajama-like pants, tall boots, suitcoats year-around, choke collars and helmets, going up-and-down on the plate-size leather under them, when trotting, supposedly helps both horse and rider stay comfortable and balanced. Being as courteous as we know how, upon receiving that bystander reprimand, we frowningly nod, bump the saddle with our behind, never looking at the advisor. Yesterday, we rationalized: “If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.” Yet, there was an arena filled with kids more than five decades our junior collecting ribbons as we got the booby prize. Worst part of the sideline nagging is when somebody insists: “You’re not trying.” As Dr. Able would say, “That makes our blood boil.” Guaranteed, we’re “trying,” yet the correct analogy is: “You just don’t get it.” Nope, for some reason we don’t, despite various instructors, diligent coaching out-behind-the-barn, watching and analyzing. Regardless of terminology: “rise and fall on the wall,” “watch the shoulder,” “follow the leg,” “feel the forward push,” nothing changes. Clincher from the advisors: “It’s so easy.” Not for us. Somebody said: “Quit trying to ride for the kings and queens, doing the kid’s stuff, and be a cowboy.” But, “Can’t is over in the ditch,” said our first grade teacher Mrs. Gibson, so “we’re still trying.” Because, “If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.” Reminds us of Job 12:5: “Look at the one who never did wrong; it’s easy to point their fingers.” Because, Genesis 18:31: “I know I’m trying your patience.” Yet, appreciating Exodus 18:18: “You could wear out these people who are helping, but you cannot do it alone.” Thus, John 17:25: “He’s still trying.” Most importantly, First Kings 22:23: “I’m not done yet.” +++ALLELUIA+++ |
