The coefficient of restitution  is a number which indicates how much kinetic energy (energy of motion) remains after a collision of two objects.

In simplest terms, if an object has a high coefficient of restitution (C of R) it will bounce back when thrown against a hard surface, retaining its original shape, while something with a very low C of R tends to go “splat!”

An object’s C of R is determined by the material from which it is made.  Steel has a high C of R and mashed potatoes don’t.  It is not a matter of positive thinking or a lack of concentration which makes the difference. So, why do some people, like my friend, seem to bounce back repeatedly from the hard impacts of  life, while others fall apart like a spoonful of soggy spuds at the first knock?

While all humans share the same basic physical make-up, we have more than physical properties. There are emotional and spiritual components, as well.

I believe it is the spiritual component which determines a person’s coefficient of restitution.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who have been called according to his purpose”

Faith in a God of love, as described in Romans 8:28 (above) gives one the resilience needed to bounce back from the assaults and insults of this world, again and again.

[Original Post August 28, 2011]