Sometimes the simple everyday items in life can be used to demonstrate great lessons. This is one of those lessons.

A young boy asked his mother what he should do to be a success when he grew up.  The mother thought for a moment, and then told him to bring her a pencil.

Puzzled, the boy found a pencil and gave it to her. “If you want to do good,” she said, “you have to be just like this pencil.”

“First, you will be able to do a lot of things, but not on your own.  You have to allow yourself to be held in someone’s hand.” Be a learner. You can learn from many people in your life. Allow the people God places in your life to lead you to better, more intelligent ways. And most of all allow God to hold you in His hand. This is the sure key to success.

“Second, you’ll have to go through a painful sharpening from time to time, but you will need it to do what you need to do.” Neither learning or growing takes place in your comfort zone. Stretching and painful trials build character and growth that cannot be found in any other avenue.

“Third, you will always be able to go back and correct any mistakes you make if you want to slow down and do it.” A bigger man it takes to say I was wrong than one who refuses to admit his mistakes. The best way to earn respect is to respect others and show your vulnerabilities.

“Fourth, no matter what you look like on the outside, the most important part will always be what’s inside.” In each of us, this again speaks of character. No matter who you try or wish to be what is inside will come out. What you allow to consume your heart, will be the person everyone around you sees.

“And, fifth,” the mother finished, “you have to press hard in order to make a mark.” Nothing will bring success without dedication and commitment combined with a durable work ethic. Press on and press hard for accomplishing the task of the one whose hand you are in.

Now that you have read the entire post, go back and read only the italicized parts of this post. Then go, Lead Like a Pencil.