This week was a great learning experience for me. I learned that perseverance and faith can bring about miracles from President Faust. I also learned that "Entrepreneurial success isn't a destination, it's a journey" (Sandefer p. 5).

I like that Sandefer interviewed successful entrepreneurs that made their fortune in ways that people don't typically think of. To me, that is part of the American dream. They had good advice and once again, I think a common theme is perseverance. Having been in sales before, I know that it can be challenging to the point that you want to give up. One entrepreneur said, "Perseverance is far more important than skill or talent. You have to have a mindset that never gives up, no matter how tough it gets. A little talent and a lot of hard work are the foundation for learning any skill, and are far more important in the long run." When I think of perseverance I think of my Mother. I often wondered throughout my life if my mom overworked herself and just didn't know when to quit. It might be a little bit of both, but I know that she has been my greatest example of perseverance. I guess you can't be a mother of eight children and run a contracting business without persevering. I should add that my Dad is no exception to this either. I am blessed to have their example in my life.

The final video (also by Sandefer) about choosing a heroes journey also had some great advice.  He talked about mentors. (I really need to get on the ball with this mentor thing...) Sandefer's suggestion to write a letter to someone you are truly grateful for but have never thanked. I was thinking about that last night for a while and the more I thought of it, I could only think of two people that I would like to thank: my grandparents. I was younger when they passed away, but I doubt I ever thanked them for how they influenced me. I learned more about their lives after they died than I did when they were alive and that makes me sad. They were also great examples of perseverance.

My husband reminded me the other day when I needed a good reminder that I just needed to keep going. I was tired and had my third miscarriage this year a few weeks ago.  He said "Remember how hard it was to keep going this year and you did? You were so glad to finish Pathway. Remember how that felt." It was a good reminder. Sometimes I think perseverance and endurance go hand in hand.