Rewarding Perseverance

NOVEMBER 6, 2007

The production of my album, Always Forward, is the result of a lot of work. It took me years to gain confidence that it was a worthwhile project, and thanks to some great opportunities, a talented producer, perseverance, and a credit card, I now have a CD that makes me proud.

Yesterday a co-worker of mine bought the CD. Today, he came in and said, "Joel, I want to thank you." Last night, circumstances allowed he and his daughter to break away from busy activities and spend some time together. They sat on the couch for 45 minutes, snuggled, and listened to the album from start to finish. His daughter was flipping through the lyrics for each song, and they were able to enjoy the music—and each other—in that focused, yet relaxing, environment.

That made my day! This is a fruit which God is allowing me to see. The small consolation that He gives to reward perseverance. It encourages me to take my own advice, moving "always forward" to the principal goal of my life—Heaven!