Helping Others Succeed by John Fuhrman
As I stood on the stage and listened to the fading applause, it hit me. I had
finally arrived. All that hard work and sacrifice paid off. Now it was my time
to shine. As a teacher/speaker I still had a lot to learn.
Back when I began writing my first book, I figured that when I finished some
publisher would send me a check and I'd live happily ever after. Well, two
realities set in fast. First, I was rejected by over 100 publishers and I was
having trouble finishing the book.
When one publisher finally took a chance on my ability, he said that once my
book was done, I would impact the lives of thousands of people and motivate them
to change the way they thought. In 90 days I was done. The book began to sell
and I began to get the checks. Life was good. But the lesson hadn't been fully
learned.
Finally, after that speech, I was led to the table at the back of the room.
You know the one. It's where I stand and sign my books and sell tapes. Needless
to say. it was packed. I was signing books until my hand ached.
I noticed that the next speaker was about to go on and out of courtesy, I
announced that the table would be closing and everyone should get their seats
for the next part of the program. I assured them that I would be there when the
next break occurred.
As I slumped into my seat, I noticed a shadow over me. There he stood. His
shirt had seen better days and was the wrong size. His tie was several inches
above his belt and the jacket he wore was borrowed from a much larger man. I
looked for an exit but his red eyes met mine.
"I just wanted to thank you," he said as his lips quivered with
nervousness. I stood to acknowledge his gratitude and simply nodded,
"You're welcome." He went on.
"I'm thanking you for this." He held up a tattered copy of my book,
"REJECT ME - I LOVE IT!" and started to cry. "You see, I didn't
see much point in hanging around any more. I was going to end it all when
someone gave me this book." I fell back into the chair. I had never been in
this type of a situation.
"I came to this convention only because I knew you were speaking and I
wanted to thank you for writing this book for me."
Before I could get a single word out, he was gone. I was unable to stand.
Everything I had thought about the success I deserved suddenly came tumbling
down. Behind that wall of ego was the lesson I had finally learned. My success
had very little to do with my ability as a writer and a speaker. There are many
with more talent than I.
My success stood in front of me that day and my life has been different ever
since. Every page I type and every word I speak is a result of this belief
inside of me.
"I don't have all the answers. For many of you I may not have any
answer. But for one of you I may have exactly the answer that can change your
life. And that's why I'm here today. I hope to meet you and shake your hand. But
if that doesn't happen I ask only this in return. Find someone who is searching
for your answer. Give it to them expecting nothing in return. The success you'll
receive is beyond your wildest dreams."
