You(th) Can

Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (1931-2015) was an institution in himself. This great man developed India’s first satellite launch vehicle, as well as different strategic missiles. He held various important positions in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and was also no less than the principal scientific advisor to the Government of India. Dr Kalam served as the President of India between 2002 and 2007. He was the recipient of the nation’s three highest civilian honours—the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan and the Bharat Ratna—indeed a true gem who was the pride of India.This best-loved President always spoke and wrote words of wisdom and inspiration, encouraging his listeners and readers, especially the youth. Each speech or letter imparted valuable lessons in humility, steadfastness, determination, and so many more wonderful feelings and values, always with an optimistic outlook. He made people believe in themselves, in the greatness of the country and in the idea that one can contribute in a great way to the country’s success and prosperity.We look at such people with tremendous admiration, and we wish to have lives like theirs. But are we willing to approach life like they do? Are we willing to go the extra mile in the face of challenges? Dr Kalam didn't always have it easy, but he always kept it simple and he always tried hard. In a letter dated 18 March 2010, he wrote:.I have one piece of advice for students based on my own experience of writing various examinations. Most of the time, the outcome was not as per my expectations. I even had to lose one year due to a paper leak. I am saying this to bring to your mind the idea that exams and exam results are not the ultimate goal in life. Success always brings happiness, but sometimes we have to be prepared to go through some setbacks, which could be for a variety of reasons. My teacher advised, ‘In life, we have to be prepared to go through certain unexpected problems. The problem should not become our captain. Students like you should become the captain of the problem, defeat the problem and succeed.’ The courage to succeed and the courage to face unexpected problems are the unique qualities of the youth. You will definitely succeed; go on trying. Do not get disheartened by temporary setbacks. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.This is not only applicable to students of school, college and university. It applies to students of life. It is said that experience is a strange teacher. It gives us the test first and the lesson later. The fact is that anything can happen to anyone at any time, unannounced and unexpectedly.No matter how you are being tested right now, you have a choice—to give up and stop trying or to keep going until you make it. Lasting success belongs to those who want to achieve it and keep it. What we take for granted has a knack of slipping away when we don't give it the time, attention and effort it requires. Take a leaf out of Dr Kalam's book and keep going. You've got this!

You(th) Can

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