On the east side of the road was a cornfield that stretched to the horizon. On the west side, there was an open, grassy field. And on that grassy side there was one, solitary cornstalk growing by the roadway.

Years later, I still remember that one, peculiar cornstalk.

* * *

Sometimes, when we stand out — even just a little — it’s to great effect. Yes, it can be risky. But some risks are worth taking.

Making our mark in the world occasionally calls for us to step outside the cornfield … to plant ourselves where we can be seen.