The Pencil Maker's Advice
Theme: Purpose, Trials, and Forgiveness
A pencil maker took a freshly crafted pencil aside right before placing it into its box. "There are five things you need to know before I send you out into the world," he told the pencil. "Always remember them, and you will become the best pencil you can be.
"First: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone's hand. "Second: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll need it to become a better pencil. "Third: You will have the ability to correct any mistakes you might make. "Fourth: The most important part of you will always be what's on the inside. "And Fifth: On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write."
The pencil understood, promising to remember the maker's words, and went into the box with purpose in its heart.
Reflection
God is the ultimate Maker, and we are the instruments of His love. We can only do great things if we surrender into His hands. The painful sharpenings are the trials that build our character. The eraser is the beautiful Sacrament of Confession, wiping away our sins. Above all, the soul inside is what matters most. Leave a mark of holiness wherever you go.