Several years ago, I celebrated Memorial Day weekend on a camping trip with a group of friends. One of them was an enormous man named Richard Franco.

Courtesy of Richard Franco Facebook page
Courtesy of Richard Franco Facebook page
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That day I witnessed one of the funniest moments of my entire life. Years later, it still makes me laugh.

A mutual friend brought a jet ski to the lake where we were camping. When it was Franco's turn to take it for a ride, the odyssey began.

After struggling to find a life vest large enough for his ample frame, his first attempt to mount the jet ski was an epic fail. As he attempted to straddle the jet ski, it gave way, plunging Franco headfirst into the water.

Undeterred, Franco tried again...and again...and again...and again. Several minutes later, a line had formed on the beach and bets were taken on whether or not he would be able to mount the vessel.

Several times, he almost made it. Once, he propelled his mighty momentum forward and appeared to have settled on top of the jet ski before the inertia forced it, and him, to topple over.

Finally, on his 17th try, Franco's steely determination conquered the elusive watercraft. As the jet ski sputtered under his weight, he hit the throttle and rode off to a chorus of applause.

What can we learn from Franco's attempt to subdue a Sea Doo?

For starters, if you weigh over 350 lbs, don't try to climb on a jet ski while you're in the water. You'll have better luck bringing it to shore.

There's also a delicate balance regarding the size of the jet ski you choose to ride. While a smaller jet ski may be easier to mount, a larger jet ski may be needed to support your girth.

Most importantly, Franco's victory over the jet ski demonstrates the power of perseverance. Where there's a will, there's a way. Even if you are a morbidly obese man challenging the force of gravity.

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