I admit. Many times, I have believed the lie that I am where I am because I have put myself here. It has been my work, my gifting, my planning, and my follow through that has led to my "success." I couldn't be more arrogant. I couldn't be more dishonoring.

I am where I am because I am privileged to stand on the shoulders of many great men and women (both near and far) who have gone before me and taken an interest in me. These people are worthy of honor.

In attempt to recover the "lost art of honor," the following is an "open letter" to all those who have made a difference in my life over the years.

Dear Difference Maker...

Without your investment in me, I would not be who I am today. Without the opportunities you've extended to me, I would not be where I am today. Without your patience with me, I would not be what I am today.

I HONOR YOU.

For your faithfulness. For your longevity. For your sacrifice. For your humility. For your willingness. For your love.

I HONOR YOU.

Thank you for leading the way. Thank you for making the commitment. Thank you for enduring the pain. Thank you for withstanding the criticism. Thank you for investing the time. Thank you for carrying the burden.

I HONOR YOU.

You could have quit. You could have given up. You could have chosen neglect. You could have chosen mediocrity. You could have made excuses. You could have found a way out. But you didn't. Instead, you chose faithfulness.

I HONOR YOU.

Your impact is deeper than you know. Your influence is wider than you see. Your legacy is broader than you understand.

I HONOR YOU.

May my honor to you be a sign of my thankfulness for you.

A humble beneficiary of your life well lived,

Edward Paz