If Robert C. Heft was here today, he’d say, “Don’t let anyone else define your future.”
Robert should know. In 1958, at the age of 17, he submitted a design for the new American flag, with 50 stars. His teacher gave him a B- for his efforts. Undeterred, Robert sent his design into the White House. President Dwight D. Eisenhower selected his design from the 1,500 that he received.
Heft would go on to become a college professor and mayor. But it was what he did at 17 for which he would always be best known.
Never underestimate the achievements of your youth. And don’t listen too much to the guy who gives you a B-.
The Bible promises, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:3).
Recovery Step: Two things will take you a long way in recovery: (a) start early, and (b) don’t let your critics define you.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
