I Don't Know the Secret to Success

But the key to failure is to try to please everyone.   

The story is told of a painter who desired to produce one work which would please the entire world.  She drew a picture which required her utmost skill and took it to the public marketplace.  She posted directions at the bottom of the piece for spectators to mark with a brush each portion of the picture that didn't meet their approval.  The spectators came and, in general, applauded the work.  But each, eager to make a personal critique, marked a small portion of the picture.  By evening, the painter was mortified to fine the entire picture had became a blot.

The next day the painter returned with a copy of the first picture.  This time she asked the spectators to mark the portions of the work they admired.  The spectators again complied.  When the artist returned several hours later, she found every stroke that had been panned the day before had received praise by this day's critics.

The artist concluded, "I now believe the best way to please one-half of the world is not to mind what the other says."

People will always have an opinion about what we say or do.  That is why we live our lives according to the words of the Bible--God's opinion.  Then we will not fret over the opinions of others.

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will hold to one and despise the other."

Matthew 6:24

Kind Words Can Be Short and Easy to Speak, But Their Echoes are Truly Endless

Many years ago a famous singer was contracted to perform at a Paris opera house.  The event was sold out in a matter of days.  The entire city was abuzz with anticipation.  That night the hall was packed with stately dressed men and women eager to hear the much admired musician.  The house manager took the stage and announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your enthusiastic support.  I am afraid that due to illness, the woman whom you've all come to hear will not be performing tonight, however, we have found a suitable substitute we hope will provide you with comparable entertainment."

The crowd groaned so loudly in its disappointment that few heard the singer's name.  Frustration replaced excitement in the hall.  The stand-in singer gave everything she had, but when her performance was over she was met with an uncomfortable silence rather than applause.  Then, from the balcony a child stood up and shouted, "Mommy, I think you are wonderful!"

Once in a while we all need to hear somebody say, "I think you are wonderful."  Why not be the person who gives that kind word of encouragement today!

She opens her mouth with skillful and godly

Wisdom and in her tongue is the law of kindness--giving counsel and instruction.

Proverbs 31:26