Sunday Journal Prompt

 “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.”

– Alexander Graham Bell

For the past six weeks, my older son Michael has been preparing for his first actuarial science exam, a national certification exam that positions him as a viable candidate for internships and job opportunities. He studied as many as ten hours per day during his winter break from college. Although he took breaks and hung out with his friends several times, he largely stayed focused on his mission.

After reviewing and re-reviewing study materials and taking practice test upon practice test, he sat for the exam yesterday—and passed! Our family is thrilled for him, as his success uplifts us all. I’ll never forget seeing his ear-to-ear grin when he shared the good news. A day later, my heart remains full, knowing that he proved to himself that his hard work paid off.

When has someone else’s success filled your heart with joy?