Are you surrounded by people whose mission is to inject ‘a dose of reality’ into your life? They continually point out how tough the economy is, how dismal the job market is, and how the sky is falling down. Jon Walker writes: ‘I remember my high school English teacher telling me not to apply to Cornell University because they wouldn’t accept me, and if they did, I wouldn’t be able to do the work…I almost didn’t apply, but a few days later a former teacher said, “If you get in, go. You can do it.” His words made all the difference. I applied and was accepted…The world needs more optimists, encouragers, and inspirers to speak into the hearts of others and say, “I believe in you. Follow your passion and live your purpose. If you have the desire, you have the power to make it happen. Keep working hard. You’re improving and getting better. The economy is tough, but you can still grow your business. The job market isn’t great, but you’ll find the right job…Even if you fail, it will lead to something even better. You’re learning and growing.” The difference between success and failure is belief, and often that belief is instilled in us by someone who encouraged us.’ The Bible says, ‘Where there is no vision, the people perish [lack faith and focus]’ (Proverbs 29:18 KJV). Vision is a desire to move ahead; without it, you stay stuck where you are. It doesn’t matter what anybody else thinks; God says, ‘There is…a future…for you,’ and when you look to Him, He will give you the strength to go forward.