A Big Stick

      Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Walk softly and carry a big stick". I like sticks. I know that sounds a little odd, but what I mean is that ever since I was little, I have carried a stick. Whenever I went outside to walk my dog, have a campfire or just to mess around, I always carried a stick. Don't ask me where or why I picked up this habit, because I don't know. 

    A few weeks ago, my father, my brother, and I began reading The Teenage Years of Jesus Christ by Jerry Ross together. In his book, Mr. Ross said that he decided to begin carrying around a different Bible verse on a 3 by 5 card every day. He said that it helped him have victory in his thought life. 

    After we read this, my brother decided he would try it. He impressed me with his initiative, and because he didn't just give it up after a couple of days. He kept doing it. After watching him for about a week, I thought I'd try it. I started recording my verse in a notebook every day, besides writing it down on the 3 by 5 card which I carry with me wherever I go throughout the day. I always choose my verse a few hours into my day so that I can choose a verse that will help me with something I am struggling with that day. For instance, one day last week I found myself getting annoyed with things that didn't matter, and I chose a Proverb about being slow to anger. 

    These verses have become my big stick. I carry my stick, both literally and metaphorically, everywhere I go. If the need arose, I would use my literal stick to protect myself. I do the same with my verse. If the devil attacks my mind, I use my big stick to defend myself. I echo Mr. Roosevelt's words, but with new meaning; "Walk softly, and carry a big stick."