Although I tried to feign absence all through the conference, this folk could not but notice my presence. He said he was Clarence, and with a confidence-exuding smile he continued,
“Excuse me, Brother, I hope you don’t mind a question from me?”
Wow! I was so impressed by how he expressed himself that I got jolted out of my indifference. But then, I could hardly complete a sentence when he confessed,
“You see, I’m pressed between two definitions of success. They might not make much sense anyway- the first is that success is simply any form of progress and the other is that success is ultimately affluence. “
“I guess there’ll be some difference in your own definition, hence my question”
This initially greeted me with silence and a little suspense, but I commenced my definition anyway and do hope it will make some sense to you as well.
I admit that success is progress and sometimes affluence, but ultimately it is in its very essence a process and not just an occurrence; a journey and not just a destination. True success is consistent diligence, resilience and positive influence.
Success often defies ‘common sense’ when it’s not about how much we possess, our address, eloquence or even our intelligence but about how much happiness we bring to others and what positive difference we make around us.
Indeed success in the general sense is regarded as being of immense importance. How then can this journey be commenced? Of a truth, some people are merely obsessed with the desire to be successful, while many others just get depressed at its elusiveness, but none of this however can grant one access to this experience. Regardless the willingness and determination, it will all be definitely be worthless if one continues to transgress the rules.
One ought to first assess oneself without pretence to know one’s true status. Also, a sense of direction coupled with diligence and intense dedication to one’s course are indispensable. Nevertheless, nothing should be done merely to impress or oppress others.
Finally and above all, Providence must be sought and embraced as this is the foundation of every lasting success. Therein one can find a sure fortress in the midst of life’s turbulence.
Thus went my brief discussion with dear Clarence and it was indeed a worthwhile one. Afterwards, I retired to my residence, just across the fence.
Rhymespirational 