“If you cannot fly then run, if you cannot run then walk, if you cannot walk then crawl but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” -Martin Luther King Jr. This famous quote sends out a powerful message of persistence and tenacity. The essence of the message is not that we will reach our goals quickly or easily; rather, it is that we will never stop striving for them.In life, there are certain periods where everything seems to work out for you, you feel powerful, competent, and ready to go “flying” towards your goals. There are also periods where things get tough and the momentum stops owing to obstacles, failure, or doubts in yourself. At such times, you feel as if you are slipping behind. This quotation subtly changes your viewpoint in such a situation.Whether the movement is running, walking, or crawling, every type of movement is an endeavor, and this depends on the circumstances involved. What is essential, however, is the fact that one should keep going, and that there is no overnight development in growth. More often than not, it takes little effort to make big gains.What makes this statement profound is the fact that it is honest about life. Unlike statements that encourage perfection and unwavering strength, this statement recognizes the reality of people and asks only for perseverance regardless of the situation. No matter how hard things get, as long as one takes just a single step, that individual is still moving forward.Thus, this statement serves as a reminder that one must not judge progress based on speed but rather endurance.But most importantly, this quote is about consistency and not about intensity. You don’t have to be amazing everyday; all that is required from you is to make an attempt and keep going, no matter how tiny your steps might be. Success comes through perseverance and not in any miraculous ways, so all it requires is determination.Therefore, the next time you find yourself struggling to move, feeling discouraged or helpless, think about this idea. You do not have to fly or even run; you only have to make one small step towards something, and if that proves impossible for you, at least crawl, but do not stop moving. Because as long as you do so, you are doing the right thing.
