Some Thoughts on Obtacles

What is an obstacle? Webster’s Dictionary defines an obstacle as ‘that which impedes or hinders progress, motion, activity, or effect’.

The definition might imply to some that obstacles are always negative things, but not always. Traffic laws could be considered obstacles. They restrict the freedom of lead foot or otherwise irresponsible drivers from affecting the safety of the public. Traffic laws are good obstacles.

Obstacles however, more often than not, negatively affect us. Obstacles can be internal,such as shyness. They can also be external, like the obstacle of poverty. I see drivers everyday (sometimes blatantly) overcome the obstacles of traffic laws, and this leads me to wonder; what percentage of obstacles can be overcome? 20%? 50% 90%? The longer I think about it, the more I tend to think that a high percentage of obstacles CAN be overcome if an individual is willing to do what it takes to overcome the obstacle.

Many of our students face obstacles, some are serious and some rather benign. Poverty, physical impairments, the learning of a second language, a dysfunctional home life are just some of the serious obstacles that our students face.

I believe that one of my primary jobs as an educator is to encourage my students to deal effectively with their obstacles. Whenever possible, I try and share my belief that most obstacles can be overcome. I’ve seen art painted by the blind that is beautiful, I’ve seen a man climb a mountain with no arms or legs. I want my students to understand that it is ATTITUDE that can knock down obstacles.

Check out this video. It features a 14 year old named Aaron Fotheringham who can do amazing things in his wheelchair. Born with spina bifida, Aaron has been confined to a wheelchair for most of his life. He has the kind of attitude that has allowed him to overcome an obstacle that many would think insurmountable.