What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.
Henry David Thoreau 
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/goals.html#04lycCiGXX4kh6bj.99 

These are the three portraits I was working on last week. From right to left: Annie Turnbo Malone, Louis Latimer, and Madam C.J. Walker. They are part of a book "African American Inventors & Pioneers" by James Henry Williams. James and I met over the counter at Staples. He showed me the Calendar he was going to have printed. I asked him who did his illustrations because I knew I could do a better job, and It turned out he was looking for an illustrator.  When I found out it wasn't a conflict of interest with Staples, I did two drawings for him to show him what I could do. That was at the end of 2008. As of today, I have drawn a total of 16 portraits, and nine spot illustrations. With more to come in the future. They are in ink with graphite. Additionally, there are two color illustrations of Barack Obama, and one of Michelle Obama. One of each on the cover. The photos are old, and often the shadow side of the face is completely in hard, dark shadow. I lightened them to show their features more. 

So who have I become by achieving my goals? I am more confident. I believe, after many years of doubting why I am here, that what I do artistically is a big part of my purpose. And more than anything I have learned to be grateful for every opportunity. 

Thank you, James, for this one.