LEAVING YOUR MARK

Did you know...?

That Joan of Arc was only seventeen when she was riding at the head
of the army that liberated France from the English?

That John Calvin was twenty-six when he published his "Institutes"?

That John Keats died when he was twenty-six?

That Shelley was thirty when he was drowned, but not before he left
English literature his classic "Odes"?

That Sir Isaac Newton had largely discovered the working of the law
of gravitation when he was twenty-three?

That Henry Clay, the "great compromiser," was sent to the United
States Senate at twenty-nine and was Speaker of the House of
Representatives at thirty-four?

That Raphael painted his most important pictures between twenty-five
and thirty?

That Mozart only lived thirty-five years?

Of course, most of us will never achieve the prominence of these
extraordinary individuals. Nor should we -- we are each cut from a
unique pattern. But many people feel as if they should be leaving
more of a mark on the world. When I was a young man I wanted to make
things happen. After a few years I realized I would have to content
myself with watching most things happen. (Now I often find that I
have no idea at all what is happening!)

It helps to remember that there is a time for everything -- and
everybody. Our time to bear good fruit may be yet to come. In fact,
we may do our best work, or find our unique place, later in life.

Colorado aspen trees grow vigorously. After the devastation of a
forest fire, frequent occurrences in the Rockies, aspens are
sometimes the first trees to return. They re-forest an area quickly,
providing shade for slower-growing spruce and pine saplings. These
evergreens grow slower, but may live many years longer than the
aspens. Each tree grows in its own time.

So does each person. Some people come to fruition quickly, others
contribute more significantly in later years.

If you've not yet come into your own, don't worry. Tend to your work
and aspirations with care. Don't give up; but rather be patient, for
growth can be slow. Remember, storms and disease are devastating, but
they can also prune you and make you stronger. With proper nurture,
you will in time enjoy a full harvest.

There is a time for everything and everybody. And the time to begin
is now.
__________

Steve Goodier Publisher@LifeSupportSystem.com is a professional
speaker, consultant and author of numerous books. Visit his site for
more information, or to sign up for his FREE newsletter of Life, Love
and Laughter at http://LifeSupportSystem.com.