"One must not work in a thousand fears, and yet that is what

     many do who are so anxious to get hold of the right colors

     and tones that through this very anxiety they become like

     tepid water. The real artists say, ‘Just dash the color on!’

     Otherwise, we reach the summit of wisdom when nobody has any

     daring left."

Van Gogh’s advice applies to each of us, in any endeavor we

undertake. We can spend too much time analyzing our options, and

wait too long to get started. Sometimes we do better just to

"dash the color on." As we begin moving toward our goal, we are

better able to recognize how to reach it.

     We also make it easier for others to help us when we are

taking clear steps toward a goal, for they are better able to

recognize specific ways to assist us. Their incentive to help us

is greater, too, when they see that we are serious.

     In addition, we present a better role model to others when

we’re being productive and not merely sitting still. When Emmett

Kirkland chose to work unsalaried for Watkins Realty, he made a

lasting impression on his children about the value of work, the

importance of faithfulness, and the benefits of staying hopeful.

His behavior did more to demonstrate to them what trusting Christ

involves than any words could ever have conveyed. His legacy

inspired them to be optimistic, to work hard, to tackle problems

rather than run away from them, and to vigorously trust the Lord

to meet their needs.

     We each have far greater influence on other people than we

imagine. And we do leave a legacy. When we approach life

positively, we inspire others to do the same.