A gal from my office distributed this parable to our bible study group, on a small piece of paper, with a pencil attached to it:
A pencil maker told the pencil 5 important lessons just before putting it into the box.
1) Everything you do will always leave a mark
2) You can always correct the mistakes you make.
3) What is important is what is inside of you.
4) In life, you will undergo painful sharpenings, which will only make you better.
5) To be the best pencil, you must allow yourself to be held and guided by the hand that holds you.
We all need to be constantly sharpened. This parable may encourage you to know that you are a special person, with unique God-given talents and abilities. Only you can fulfill this purpose, which you were born to accomplish. Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot be changed. Like the pencil, always remember that the most important part of who you are is what's inside of you. And, allow yourself to be guided by the hand of God.
I enjoyed that and hope you will pass it on.
Loves from the Queen