Encouragement

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Secret Weapon
© 2011

by

Stephen A. Peterson


30 year old Specialist Jason James enlisted in the Army late in life. He reported joined the Army because he wanted to give back to his country through his service. Specialist James was not and had never been married, completed his formal education and was in no debt to anyone.

During his third duty assignment at Fort Bliss, Texas, members of his unit soon learned of his many talents. When the barracks latrines were stopped up and overflowing, he, with minimal tools quickly and efficiently fixed the problem. On an extremely hot day, he correctly diagnosed why the air condition failed at Company Headquarters. Within two hours, he was able to repair the damage and get the air conditioning up and running and working more efficiently than before. Under the supervision of the Supply Sergeant, Specialist James completely remodeled the supply room reducing work area hazards.

One day, marveling at these and others results of the Specialist, the Company Commander asked him, “Specialist, where did you learn all of your skills? Who taught you these things? Was it your dad? What’s your secret?”

“Sir, I really never knew my dad. So that’s out. After high school and vocational training, I worked for a man who was a handyman for about 8 years. He taught me how to multi-task and how to repair many, many things. In addition to this handyman, I worked part-time and on weekends four other guys who gave me pointers as well. Even though I’ve been in the Army for nearly four years, I still call on my former employer and friends with loads of questions. When I talk to these guys, I ask them to teach me what I need to know. They do too. In addition to my friends I’ve learned quite a bit from going to the website.

Yesterday, when your window air condition unit was not working, I got on the horn and called my friend about it. In about five minutes, he told me what I was doing wrong. I was able to correct it without anybody else knowing about it. I also take a moment to get some help from the Almighty as well. I came up with my special prayer. I use it during tight situations.

Specialist James pulled a laminated card from his chest pocket then presented to the Captain. On it was written:

Almighty Father guide my mind and hands,
Lead me through the difficulties I must face
Teach me the things I must know,
Assist me in every way,
In all that I say and do.
May it be in service to You
And for your glory.

After his meeting with Specialist James, the Company Commander requested a copy of his prayer and received it. When the Captain experiences the pressures of command, he takes out the prayer. He has found on many occasions where it has given him resolve and strength. Perhaps it may do the same for you!

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