The pencil maker took the pencil aside just before placing it into the box.
"There are five things you need to know," he told the pencil, "before I send you out into the world. Always remember them, and you will become the best pencil you can be.
- You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone's hand.
- You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll need it to become a better pencil.
- You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.
- The most important part of you will always be what's inside.
- On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write."
The pencil understood, promised to remember, and went into the box with purpose in its heart.
Now, replace the pencil with yourself. Always remember these five things, and you will become the best person you can be.
- You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be guided by a higher purpose and share your gifts with others.
- You will experience painful sharpenings by going through various problems in life, but you'll need them to become stronger.
- You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.
- The most important part of you will always be your inner character.
- On every path you walk, you must leave your mark. No matter the situation, you must continue to do your duties.
Let this parable encourage you. You are a special person, and only you can fulfill the unique purpose you were born to accomplish. Never get discouraged or think your life is insignificant and cannot make a change.