Your past, while it may be tragic, painful or even embarrassing, doesn't have the right to control your future unless you give it that right. How much more of a right do you have to choose to rise above and go beyond your past? Will you rise above your past or remain under its control. It is your choice. (c)

Being prepared and capable in what you endeavor to do does not mean that you will not be met with challenges, obstacles, setbacks, and even opposition along the way. It does mean however, that you will be better prepared for these things when they come and more steadfast in your commitment to run the race that is before you in order to see those things you hope for come to pass. (c)

Never settle for mediocrity lest it become your tomb while you yet live.

The greater your dedication is in the preparation for the things you want most in life, the greater the possibility that what you want most in life will come to pass.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying. It is a ravenous termite of the soul. It is the opposite of faith, and will bring nothing but unwanted and unhealthy emotions. Worry's only equal in destructive force is self-exaltation where narcissism takes complete control of your life. Neither of these have any place in a person's life, let alone the life of a true follower of Christ.

Procrastination has caused most would be success stories to whither up and die. It is better to take "massive imperfect action" than that of taking your time to make certain every possible obstacle is addressed before you begin. If you want to get your success moving forward, take some sort of outward action every day beyond just preparation that moves you closer in noticeably tangible ways towards your goals.