Go Where You Are Valued

I once gave my daughter an old Chelsea clock I had owned for many years and said, “Before you decide to keep it, try and sell it in a few different places and see what happens.”

She first took it to a flea market. When she came back, she said, “Someone offered me only $10. They said it wasn’t worth much and people don’t really buy clocks anymore.”

I told her, “Now try a pawn shop.” She did, and when she returned she said, “They offered me $25 and told me it was nothing special.”

Next, I sent her to an antique dealer. She came back and said, “The dealer offered me $100. He said not many people collect these anymore and suggested I just hold on to it.”

Finally, I told her, “Post it on the Chelsea Clock Collectors page on Facebook.” She did, and soon after she said, “Someone offered me $1,500 for it! They told me it’s an iconic clock and they wanted it for their collection.”

I then said to her, “Do you see? The right people recognize true value. If you’re not appreciated, don’t be discouraged—it just means you’re around the wrong people. Those who know your worth are the ones who will treasure you. Never stay where your value isn’t seen.”