The Old Man and the Sea

I really resonated with the story of the old man. He hasn't caught a fish in 84 days, and yet he remains hopeful and determined. There is sense of honesty and pride in his work. Despite his failings, he continues in his pursuit and work. And, finally he catches a gaint marlin, the biggest dolphin that he has ever seen. He struggles with the fish for three days, barely eating or sleeping, and finally succeeds to take down the biggest fish in his life. He is now filled with enthusiasm. However, on his way back to the shore, the fish gets attacked by the sharks. He encounters many sharks and fights them off, but slowly with, each fight, he loses more and more of the fish and also the resources he has at his disposal to fight these sharks off. But, despite all this, fully knowing he has been defeated, he still manages to will himself. He almost feels like it is his duty to put the fight. He doesn't hold any grudges against the sharks either.

I have struggled in my life, especially for the last two years. It is so difficult to keep going, and do the same job with that same level of dignity and sincerity. But, this story tells us, we have no option but to put up that fight. I may very well not succeed, and hopelessly fail, but nobody can take the pride in my struggle for my life.