A Definition of Success

The man is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had."
Proverbs 15:1 Bible (15th-16th century)
(First known English translation from the Latin)

Will you leave the world better than you found it? Perhaps that is the clearest indication of success. No matter what your talents or strengths are, there are so many ways to do that. The biggest satisfaction in anyone's life lies in creating something that will outlast him. It lies in accomplishing those goals which benefit others besides himself. We all dream of being remembered with gratitude by future generations. It is one of our soul's greatest desires.

If we can never fail to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, including that in other people, we will be inspired to create that something special. There is so much beauty and wonder in the world that most of us just don't even see. There is a temptation to assume that science can explain everything that leaves us feeling jaded and unimpressed by things. It is so much better to admire the colors and patterns of a beautiful sunset than to remember about deflection of light by airborne particles that explains it. Any painter that tries to paint the deflection of light is not going to come up with anything to inspire future generations. Enjoy the world around you. Look at it every day with the wonder of a child.

If we make the most use of all of our talents and abilities and give it all we got, our special creation will be that much better. Be committed to creating something that people will remember you well for.
Don't be afraid of the work involved, it really will be worth it in the end. Your life will have meant something. You will have been successfull.

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