Troy Davis and Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

As I sat pondering the purpose behind Outliers: The Story of Success and the implications in it made by Malcolm Gladwell I was shocked and saddened to find out that Troy Davis was executed. On the heels of enlightenment as Gladwell talks about "the gifts of our own history, and how the world could benefit if more of our kids were granted the opportunities to fulfill their remarkable potential"  I was brought to reality by a decision made on the other side of the country. For a man I don't know. And a crime virtually unsolved.

Troy Davis' opportunity to fulfill his remarkable potential was brought to an end!

Am I the only one that thinks it is archaic and somewhat savage to execute a man? A life taken from this world and not given the chance to progress. Are any of us wise enough, both merciful and just enough, to stand in as a judge over the life that God has granted?

For those of you who have read Gladwell's book you may say that life isn't always so predictable, nor is it neatly laid out for us. While I agree, I also think he makes a good point in that we are ultimately the ones who choose our success in life. During our formative years we all developed an image of ourselves which impacts the successes that we have throughout our lives; However, if we cannot change and find a way to succeed then what is the purpose of this life?

I believe the purpose of life is for us to learn to fulfill the "remarkable" potential with which we have been blessed!!

While Troy Davis' opportunity to fulfill his potential was cut short, there are many marvelous stories of success in Gladwell's book. Just imagine what you may discover about yourself by reading the success stories of others.