Too often we measure success by the outcome: a goal achieved, a task accomplished, a journey completed. But perhaps a better measure of success might be what happens along the way: the strength revealed, the lessons taught, the sacrifices made. For some, however, great efforts don’t always produce desired outcomes. Even while demonstrating courage and endurance, some might not reach the journey’s end. And yet their wholehearted efforts deserve praise and recognition. Their success might not be as measurable, but for those who witness their struggle, it can be even more inspiring.
In 1855 James Loader left his homeland of England and led his family in a handcart journey of more than a thousand miles. Their goal was the Great Basin of the American West. En route James became sick, but he determined to keep pulling the handcart. Only after collapsing twice from weakness would he let his daughters bear the burden without him.
But James still found ways to help his family. He used what little strength he had to make tent pins, explaining that his family would need them when the winter storms came. “You will not be able to make [them],” he told his daughters, “your hands will be so cold.”1
James did not live long enough to weather those storms. He never set foot in the valley he longed to see. In one sense, he did not “make it.” But in every way that really matters, James was a success. He forged a lasting legacy of love, determination, and faith for his family and for all who admire the pioneering spirit.
He showed us all that success often comes all along the way, even “before our journey’s through.”2
1 In Andrew D. Olsen, The Price We Paid: The Extraordinary Story of the Willie and Martin Handcart Pioneers (2006), 302–6.
2 “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, no. 30.
Program #4167