History is filled with men and women who made some of the greatest achievements by excelling only slightly over the masses of others in their field. Often that slight edge is attitude.

We must admit that aptitude is important to our success in life. Yet success or failure in any undertaking is caused more by mental attitude than by mere mental capabilities. Oh great, now it’s not only what I know but how I apply what I know. I read of a Princeton Seminary professor who discovered that the spirit of optimism really does make a difference. He made a study of great preachers across past centuries. He noted their tremendous varieties of personalities and gifts. Then he asked the questions, “What do these outstanding pulpiteers all have in common besides their faith?â€