Imagine if you were the next Max Lucado or Ann Voskamp. What if your name appeared on the New York Times Best Seller list?
A good name provides a good read. Yet also, a respectable name reflects a renewed heart and restored life. So, I aim to gain a good name through learning the craft of writing, and a respectable name by leading a good life.
Sometimes, however, I do not live up to the aspirations of a fine writer’s name.
The other day I arrived at the track in the center of our town to practice my usual prayer workout. The sun peeked over the trees, yet crisp cold air filled my lungs.
I curled my fingers inside my gloves, stepped onto the outside lane of the track and turned to the right, joining the other walking and jogging regulars.
I began to pray.
As I completed the first curve of the track, I encountered an unfamiliar sight—a woman walking towards me. Not only that, but she was in my lane.
Irritation flooded my being, overflowing as a steely stare and self-muttering: “You’re going the wrong way. Don’t you realize that everyone else is moving in the opposite direction?”
Our steps shortened the distance between us. I placed each footstep firmly in the middle of my lane. With shoulders back, elbows out and arms swinging widely I plowed forward. The woman was within breathing distance, yet bated breath stuck in my throat.
She smiled. I glared back. She stepped to the side. I strode on.
The incident was over… until the next lap.
I relayed the encounter to my husband when I arrived home.
He spoke words that had been struggling to gain attention in my head; shoved to one side: “What if she has read your book?”
Proverbs 3 says to win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man let love and faithfulness never leave you.
I was back at the track the next day. The same woman was there, walking in the wrong direction and in my lane. This time, however, I smiled. “Good morning,” I added.