In this story, who do you aspire to be?

Have you heard about The Starfish Story by Loren Eiseley?

In honouring the recent passing of James Ridinger, who would tell this story often enough to as a reminder that each person has the capability to make a choice, to create a positive ripple effect the people around us. That was what he did, and that was how he had lived.

One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean.

Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?”

The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.”

“Son,” the man said, “don’t you realise there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!”

After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf.

Then, smiling at the man, he said…” I made a difference for that one.”

Who do you aspire to be in this story?

Once, I found myself in a situation similar to that of the man. However, I crossed paths with individuals who were like boys at heart. Embracing their spirit, I transformed into the starfish, open to receiving help that ultimately propelled me into a better position.

Now, I aim to embody the qualities of the boy.

What about you? Who do you aspire to be in your story?