The Word That Spells Success

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 29, 1914

The Word That Spells Success

THERE used to be an old Irishman who was a ditch digger. But he made a profession of it; he made an art of it. When he dug a ditch it was dug, and it couldn't be dug better. Of how many ditch diggers can you say that today? That man's pride in his work was positively stimulating. The only thing old John knew was to dig a ditch, but he was an artist at it. He dug a ditch not for a day's wage, but because he loved it. He never did anything else; to the end of his time he dug ditches, and hundreds blessed him because they could rely upon him to dig their ditches well.

Yet how many would call old John a successful man? But he surely was. None more successful—in his line. He was a success in his work as ditch digger; and, what is better, he was a success as a man,—the very highest type of man. For the part that God gave him to do in the world he did honestly, lovingly, and well; the very best he could do. He was competent! To be competent: one man as president, the other as ditch digger; each in his own sphere—but competent! That spells success!— Ladies’ Home Journal.