The Hobbit Within

I am Frodo. I am Sam. The world outside the Shire is so vast and important. I dream of climbing the Misty Mountains and of seeing Rivendel, but I am a Hobbit and love the safety of my quiet borders, sunny fields, and woodland streams. The outside world is filled with loud Men so much taller and stronger than I. Elves, so much more graceful and beautiful than I, tread the vast forests, while Dwarves delve deep and build structures of unbelievable strength and endurance. And there are Wizards, wise beyond compare, running throughout lands, meddling and giving aid to kings and countries.

But, I am a Hobbit, small and timid, not designed for great deeds. I am not strong like Men, graceful and powerful like the Elves, or enduring like the Dwarves. I belong to a race that others, and even ourselves, see as quaint and comical. We live without greatness, happy in our peace that is provided by those great and noble beings we hear about in tales and legends.

I am Frodo. I have been given a ring, a task. What is my task? I don’t know. Where am I taking this ring? I’ve heard hints though I don’t know the way. I wish this had never happened to me for I am a Hobbit and not built for great things.

I am Sam. My friend has a ring. I see the burden tear at him. He stands at the edge of his land staring at the road into the unknown. He is scared, terrified of the trials and terrors that lie ahead. But I am Sam, and I will stay by his side because he is my friend even though I am just a Hobbit and not built for great things.

I am Frodo, placing one foot in front of the other. I am tired and worn, but I won’t stop for a task has been given to me. I have crossed lands beyond my comprehension, traversed the darkness, and faced overwhelming battles. Mount Doom itself is in sight, and I cower because I am a Hobbit and not built for great things.

I am Sam, placing one foot in front of the other as I tread beside my friend across the blasted land. Now we lean upon each other as the journey takes its toll. Now I carry my friend because he can no longer support himself. We have made it! I lay on the side of Mount Doom cradling the damaged hand of my friend for I can do no more to ease his suffering and release...

Now is the time that the deeds of Hobbits will shake the world of Men.

I will live my life.
I will carry my burden.
I will be your friend.
Because I am Frodo. Because I am Sam. Because I am a Hobbit.