No. 2

11/9/10 The ubiquitous yellow No. 2. These pencils continue to be a standard in education. At the high school level, their main purpose seems to be in the test-taking realm. TCAP, ACT and other standardized tests require them. Exams and end of course tests that are scored using Scantrons still use them---maybe because the softer lead/graphite makes erasure easier.

Just yesterday, Tootsie sent me an e-mail with pencil art. I didn’t see any author so I can’t give credit but some really sharp pencil points were given. (Just had to throw that in because y’all know how I love my pencil points to be extra sharp!) Read and determine for yourself the spiritual implications of the analogy.

5 Important lessons for Pencils of Purpose

1. REMEMBER, EVERYTHING YOU DO WILL LEAVE A MARK.
2. YOU CAN ALWAYS CORRECT THE MISTAKES YOU MAKE .
3. WHAT’S IMPORTANT IS WHAT IS INSIDE OF YOU.

4. IN LIFE, YOU WILL UNDERGO PAINFUL SHARPENINGS, WHICH WILL ONLY MAKE YOU BETTER.
5. TO BE THE BEST PENCIL, YOU MUST ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE HELD AND GUIDED BY THE HAND THAT HOLDS YOU.

As most of my readers know, I am constantly sharpening pencils, especially in times of stress. It’s just so therapeutic for me. However, I need to cease striving and like the good ole No. 2, allow the Hand that guides my life to hold me and use me for His purpose.