The Little Engine That Could

In 1910, Mary C. Jacobs wrote a story under the title "The Poney Engine," in the Kindergarten Review under the pseudonym "Watty Piper" used by publishing house Platt & Munk. Over the years, "editors" have "tweaked" and "updated" this story, but it is essentially the same.

We know this story undert the title "The Little Engine That Could." It is a moralistic children's story which appeared in the USA. Its purpose is to teach children the value of optimism and hard work. Some critics contend that this book is a metaphor for THE AMERICAN DREAM.

The tale says that a long train must be pulled over a high mountain. Various larger engines, treated anthropomorphically, are asked to pull the train. For various reasons, they refuse. Finally, this request reaches to a small engine. This engine agrees. The engine begins slowly with the determination: "I think I can--I think I can." And the long engine begins building up steam and movement forward very slowly, and in time, "the little engine" ultimately guided the train over the mountain.

This is a very simple story. But it is very inspiring and motivating. Every day, disappointments, enemies, losses, dashed dreams, apathy lie all around us. God constantly reminds us:
"I will be with you. I will not fail you or forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)

Let us all listen to an accept this great promise of God. Then, under God, like "the little engine that could," let us slowly, surely, daily, with determination, continue to serve God and others.

How is YOUR TODAY? Let me get your feelings. Share your feelings with those around you you love.

John Willis