More on squash

In an interesting experiment at Amherst College (Massachusetts) a band of steel was secured around a young squash. As the squash grew, it exerted pressure on the steel band. Researchers wanted to know just how strong a squash could be, so they measured the force it brought to bear on its constraints. They initially estimated that it might be able to exert as much as 500 pounds of pressure.

In one month, the squash was pressing 500 pounds. In two months it was applying 1,500 pounds and, when it reached 2,000 pounds, researchers had to strengthen the steel band. The squash eventually brought 5,000 pounds of pressure to bear on the band -- when the rind split open.

They opened it up and found it to be inedible, as it was filled with tough, course fibers that had grown to push against its constraints. The plant required great amounts of nutrients to gain the strength needed to break its bonds, and its roots extended great distances in all directions. This amazing squash had single-handedly taken over the garden space.

We have no idea just how strong we really can be! If a squash can exert that much physical pressure, how much more strength can human beings apply to a situation?

Most of us are stronger than we realize. I am told that it was Eleanor Roosevelt who observed, "A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong she is until she gets into hot water." (I suspect the same is true of men, but that's only speculation. ha-ha....

Does an obstacle you are presently facing loom large before you? Does it seem just too big? Perhaps overwhelming? If so, remember the squash. Its single-minded purpose was to break the bonds which held it. If you patiently focus your energy -- what problem can stand against the great mental, spiritual and physical strength you can bring to bear?