"Nevah Nevah Nevah give up!"

In Greek mythology, Sisyphus was the founder and king of Ephyra. Zeus punished him for cheating death twice by forcing him to roll an immense boulder up a hill only for it to roll down every time it neared the top, repeating this action for eternity.

When I was a child, my mother had a bronze figure of Sisyphus on her dresser. I never really understood why, though I knew the story. I thought she was just being clever; she was very, very clever!

As we all know, however, adulthood teaches us about sisyphean life! Just when you think you've gotten the boulder in front of you up to the top, something happens and it tumbles back down. Getting back into position to start pushing again can take eons, and once you are in pushing posture, then the struggle starts all over again.

Sound familiar? Sisyphean times in our lives come and go, but when they come we sometimes need a community to help us in the effort OR to remind us not to give up.

When I think of those sisyphean times, I hear the words of Winston Churchill echoing in my head. In his rough and very British voice, he said in a commencement speech regarding Great Britain's involvement in World War II, "We shall nevah give in, nevah, nevah, nevah!" It has often been misquoted as never give up, so that is how I choose to remember it especially when I am feeling like Sisyphus!

My word for the year comes to mind as I contemplate Sisyphus...Gratitude. Gratitude for my family, friends and community of faith who either helps me push the boulder or reminds me never never to give up!

Sound familiar?