Someone forwarded me the following story of a fire that started on some grassland near a farm in Indiana. 'The fire department from the nearby town was called to put the fire out. The fire proved to be more than the small town fire department could handle, so someone suggested that a rural volunteer fire department be called. Though there was doubt that they would be of any assistance, the call was made.

The volunteer fire department arrived in a dilapidated old fire truck. They drove straight towards the fire and stopped in the middle of the flames. The volunteer firemen jumped off the truck and frantically started spraying water in all directions. Soon they had snuffed out the center of the fire, breaking the blaze into two easily controllable parts.

The farmer was so impressed with the volunteer fire department's work and so grateful that his farm had been spared, that he presented the volunteer fire department with a check for $1000. A local news reporter asked the volunteer fire captain what the department planned to do with the funds. 'That should be obvious,' he responded, 'the first thing we're gonna do is get the brakes fixed on that stupid fire truck.' ' (Author Unknown)

Sometimes I find myself speeding forward like this fire truck -- forging in where only a fool would go, then coming to my senses in the middle of the flames and wondering, 'How in the world did I get here?' Like the fire truck, I usually get myself in these situations when I've run to the aid of someone else.

As these firemen learned, I too learn that it has all been for a reason. Sometimes we have to forge ahead with intensity and determination despite the odds. I believe that too many of us waste precious time debating, deliberating and worrying. As my father always said, 'Fools rush in and get the best seats.' I'm not saying that we should always throw caution to the wind, but when we're going forward in a good cause, let the brakes be gone and go forward in faith that somehow, someway, with God's help we'll rise to the occasion and douse the flames.

Marnie Pehrson, a mother of 6, has been highlighting truth and talent for 15 years. Whether it's writing a novel that spotlights individuals who've made a difference in the world or helping a talented entrepreneur create a platform for his life's work, Marnie underscores truth and talent in innovative and compelling ways. She is the creator of www.IdeaMarketers.com and helps experts promote their products and services online. For more information on her various projects and books, visit http://www.pwgroup.com. Contact the author, Marnie Pehrson , at marnie@pwgroup.com
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