Your success is seldom yours alone

What I witnessed from a child, a chess set, and a choice

When I was in grad school, I lived with a couple and their 12-year-old son named Paul. One day Paul excitedly showed his dad a beautiful wooden chess set.

"I bought it at a neighborhood garage sale. The man wanted $10, but I got him to sell it to me for $1," Paul declared with a smirk, "He doesn't know what it's worth!"

Without missing a beat, his dad set him straight: "No. He liked you and wanted to give you the chess set. But he also gave you the dignity of buying it. Go back tomorrow and thank him properly."

Wow! What a teaching moment - there are several life lessons and reminders here.

Don't mistake others' kindness for weakness. Don't take credit for blessings that come your way.

Lack of self-awareness is never a good look. Not when you're a bratty middle schooler. But especially not when you're a grown professional.

In your ambitions, don't lose sight of the people who help you. When you approach life with a humble posture, you'll see that kindness can be found all around. Receive it with grace and pay it forward.