Today I noticed my shoes are worn to the brink of decay. My laces are dirty and permanently tied, and there are mud stains that streak the toes. What does that say about me?

I walk a lot. I try to cover at least 2 miles a day. Now that may not seem like much to some of you who go 0 to 60 in a mere 10 seconds, but to me it’s an amazing leap forward–from someone who couldn’t walk even a few steps to someone who climbs over trees fallen in the path.

I’m a writer. Many of you nod and say, “Yes, he can’t afford new shoes.” In a way you’re right. I’d rather spend my money on book covers and supplies than my feet. My shoes, like me, will be gone from the world before the echoes of my words settle into dust. Books give me a legacy, a sense of permanence. Shoes…I am wealthy enough to own them.

Today I looked at my feet and wondered how I’d look in pink boots!