Last year, as the school year was ending, I wrote an article about gumption. I feel like it’s a subject that we should revisit.

We don’t hear the word “gumption” anymore. Too bad, since in today’s world we need it more than ever. Seems a shame that such a grand old word has dropped through the cracks, especially since quitting is now more popular that finishing. Maybe the reason we don’t hear it more or experience it is because not many people have it.

Gumption is described as courage and initiative; enterprise and boldness. Gumption can’t be taught in school. You either have it or you don’t.  

Speaking of school, we are approaching the season of graduations. We will hear speeches, see graduates receive honors and celebrate with family and friends.  

Last year, as I tuned in to Fox late news, I saw a valedictorian of a high school give his speech. As he stepped to the podium, with members of the faculty seated behind him, he began his much-awaited message to those in attendance. He pulled out a piece of paper with notes he intended to use in his speech. After he addressed the crowd, and as everyone was waiting for his words of wisdom, he tore up his notes and gave glory to who deserved the glory and began reciting the Lord’s Prayer.  

As he began reciting the prayer, the crowd started to applaud and gave him a standing ovation. As this went on, the members of the stone-faced faculty had their arms folded with blank expressions on their faces. Evidently, they were experiencing gumption and didn’t know what it was or didn’t like the bold action of a brave, young man who was not afraid to acknowledge God.  

It was refreshing to see an intelligent young man exercise his right of freedom of speech!

In today’s society, that’s not appropriate behavior. Having a moment of silence is, but expressing one’s Christian beliefs is referred to as being self-righteous.

It’s amazing that after seeing this on Fox news, I looked at other networks and newspapers to see if I could find out the name of the school the young man attended. Not once did I see coverage of the incident on any other news release.

In today’s society, gumption is needed more now than ever.  

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.