When I was just a very young child my parents taught me the importance of reading good books. They would read to me each night until I learned to read for myself. They always critiqued my books before I read them! Much of my
free time was spent with a good book as my company!

One of the first biographies I remember reading was the life of J.C. Penny! He was a successful retail businessman from Missouri, the 7th of 12 children, and was raised to believe in the Golden Rule. J. C. Penny’s parents also taught him to tithe the first 10% of all his money and he did that throughout his entire life.

The first J. C. Penny store opened in April of 1902. He accepted “cash only” for his goods – no credit! Penney’s store was successful because his customers liked the merchandise and good service! The J. C. Penny Company flourished under the
motto: “Honor, Confidence, Service and Cooperation.”

James Cash Penny died in 1971 at the age of 95. In 2002 J. C. Penny company celebrated 100 years of service and is still today one of American’s largest retailers!

I am thankful that my parents  instilled in me a desire to read! They also taught me at a young age to practice Malachi 3:8-10 and I have never regretted that practice!
I am thankful for Christian parents!