One of the most successful men I’ve ever met was from Philadelphia.

He wasn’t the CEO of a large company or the leading salesman of any investment company. He was a middle-aged man who made a living by shining shoes.

The year was 1955, and my ship was in the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for repairs.

Whenever I had the chance to leave the ship and go into the city, I would get my shoes shined by this man. It was a habit that I looked forward to, not necessarily for the shoeshine, but for the relationship I developed with him.

I didn’t realize it then, but he was a master of personal relations. He was interesting to talk to and, unlike most people, was a good listener.

One day, I asked if he had a family. “I’m married and have three children.”

Puzzled, I asked if this was the only thing he did to make a living.  

“Yes, I do pretty well.” He then smiled and said, “All three of my children attend college and are doing well.”

Evidently, he could see I was puzzled and said, “I charge you 25 cents to shine your shoes, but you always give me a dollar or more. I have very few people who only pay 25 cents for the service I provide.”

I can’t remember his name, but I’ll never forget his attitude and personal skills in dealing with people.  

I didn’t realize until many years later that he had the secret to success, which is being in God’s will for your life. He provided a service, loved what he was doing and made people relax and feel comfortable while enjoying his company. He had an encouraging ministry, maybe without even realizing it.

If the secret to success lies in knowing what God has assigned and gifted you to do, he was as successful as anyone I’ve ever met.  

Novelist Louis Auchincloss said, “The only thing that keeps a man going is energy, and what is energy but liking life.”

He was one of the most unforgettable individuals I’ve ever met. He loved life!

The older I get the more I realize that the majority of people, regardless of their material wealth or position, are unsuccessful in life.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477 or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.