Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Never Give Up: The Inspiring Tale of Try Again by Eliza Cook

 

Never Give Up: The Inspiring Tale of Try Again by Eliza Cook

Have you ever felt like giving up after failing at something hard? Try Again is a short but powerful poem by Eliza Cook that shows us why we should never lose hope—even if things don’t go right the first time.


Who Was Eliza Cook?

Eliza Cook (1818–1889) was an English writer and poet from a humble background who believed strongly in self-improvement and education. She wrote poems that encouraged people to be brave, keep learning, and never give up, which made her very popular with many readers back then. 


What Happens in the Poem?

The poem tells an inspiring story about King Bruce of Scotland—a powerful ruler who is feeling utterly defeated:

  • He sits alone, heavy with sadness, even though he wears a crown. His heart is "beginning to sink" because he failed many times trying to help his people.

  • At his lowest point, he decides to give up. But just then, something small yet powerful grabs his attention: a spider dropping on a fine silk thread 

  • The spider climbs up, only to fall repeatedly—slipping nearly to the ground each time. But it doesn’t stop trying .

  • On the tenth attempt, the spider finally reaches its web at the top! Watching its determination, King Bruce realizes that if a tiny spider can try again and again, he too can. So he gathers his courage, tries once more, and succeeds this time .


What Does the Poem Teach Us?

Perseverance and courage are the biggest lessons here. Seeing the spider's determination inspires King Bruce to keep going—and so can it inspire us.

The themes are clear:

  • Never give up, no matter how many times you fail.

  • Even the smallest creatures can teach us big lessons.

  • Determination and patience help us reach our goals 


A Quick Recap for You

PointWhat it Means for You
A sad kingEven leaders can feel unsure or tired
The spider’s attemptSmall efforts, repeated, can bring success
On the 10th tryThe power of persistence pays off
Message of the poemKeep trying—you’ll reach your goal someday

Why You'll Love This Poem

  1. It's short and easy to understand. Anyone can read it and feel its message.

  2. It's full of hope. It shows that giving up isn’t the only choice, even when things seem impossible.

  3. It's motivational. Think of the spider next time you're stuck on homework, sports practice, or something challenging—you’ve got this!


Final Thoughts

Try Again inspires us to remember that success comes to those who refuse to quit. Whether you're facing a difficult school project or just having a tough day, think of that brave spider and ask yourself: "Can I try just one more time?"


When the River Whispers: A Magical Moment in a Little Girl’s Life

 

When the River Whispers: A Magical Moment in a Little Girl’s Life

Imagine living in a quaint coastal village where the sea breeze plays in your hair, and the sound of waves is your daily song. In that very setting lives Jahnavi, a bright and curious girl who has a big dream: she wants to go to school. But there’s a problem—because she’s expected to care for her younger siblings, her family never seems to find time to let her study.

One day, feeling sad by the river, Jahnavi is surprised to hear a gentle, sleepy voice speaking to her. Can you guess who it is? It’s the River itself, comforting her like an old friend. The River listens patiently as Jahnavi pours out her dreams—how she wonders about the yellow spiders that live in flowers, the rustling bamboo, and the moon that hides behind hills—and how much she longs to learn.

With kindness and wisdom, the River tells her, “Girls are just as capable as boys. Just slip into the classroom quietly one day… maybe the teacher will let you stay.” It’s advice — and a spark of hope — that Jahnavi desperately needs.



Choosing Courage: Jahnavi’s First Step

Encouraged by the River’s words, Jahnavi bravely decides to try. The next day, with her youngest brother Appu by her side, she sneaks to the school. Standing quietly at the back of the classroom, she listens as the teacher speaks about King Ashoka. Though nervous, she stays still, and soon the teacher notices her.

That evening, something wonderful happens: the teacher visits Jahnavi’s home. While her father worries, her mother—who once dreamt of studying herself—supports Jahnavi’s wish. Together, everyone decides she can go to school!


A New Dawn and a Promise

The next morning, Jahnavi runs to the river, her heart brimming with joy. She has done it—she’s going to school! Inspired by this first big adventure, she dreams of becoming a teacher someday, to help other girls in her village follow their dreams too. The River, pleased and proud, promises to tell her many more stories—about ships, far-off lands, and endless possibilities.


Why This Story Matters

  • A Dream That Shines Through: Jahnavi reminds us that dreams are worth pursuing—even when they seem hard or impossible.

  • Magic in Kind Words: Sometimes, gentle encouragement—just like the River’s voice—is enough to help us find courage.

  • Education Brightens Lives: The story shows how powerful and life-changing learning can be, especially for girls.

  • Belief from Loved Ones Matters: Jahnavi succeeds because she’s believed in, first by the River, then by her teacher and her mother.


A Little Message for You

Like Jahnavi, you might sometimes feel small next to your dreams—but never forget how powerful your hopes are. Whether it’s learning something new, sharing with friends, or helping others—courage grows with every small step.

Next time you're near water, close your eyes and listen. You might not hear a river speak—but you’ll find your own voice leading the way.



If I Had Just Three Days to See – Helen Keller’s Inspiring Wish

 


If I Had Just Three Days to See – Helen Keller’s Inspiring Wish

Have you ever wondered what you would do if you could only see for three days? Most of us take our eyesight for granted, but Helen Keller, who was both blind and deaf, imagined this very situation in her famous essay Three Days to See. Her thoughts can inspire us to appreciate the beauty around us.

Who Was Helen Keller?

Helen Keller lost her sight and hearing when she was only 19 months old due to an illness. With the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, she learned to communicate and became an author, speaker, and champion for people with disabilities. She knew the value of senses better than anyone.

Day 1 – Seeing the People She Loves

On her first day of sight, Helen wanted to look at her friends, family, and especially her teacher, Anne Sullivan. She wanted to remember their faces forever. She also dreamed of walking in the woods to enjoy the beauty of nature — the trees, flowers, and the animals.

Day 2 – Experiencing the World Outside

On her second day, Helen would explore the world beyond her home. She would visit museums to see great works of art, look at buildings, and observe how people live their daily lives. She wanted to see things she had only touched or heard described before.

Day 3 – Everyday Life in Action

On her last day of sight, Helen wanted to walk through the busy streets of a city, watch people going to work, see children playing, and observe the sunrise. She also wanted to spend the evening watching a theater performance and finally look at the stars in the night sky.

The Message for Us

Helen Keller’s thoughts remind us to value every moment and to really look at the world. She teaches us to appreciate people, nature, and the simple joys around us. Even though she could not see, her imagination and love for life were brighter than most people’s vision.

So next time you see a flower, a smile, or a sunset, remember Helen Keller’s dream and treasure the gift of sight.