One of my favorite oil paintings is that of the Eiffel Tower. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. Built as the grand entrance to an 1889 world trade fair, the tower receives thousands of visitors every year and is a favorite spot for romantic rendezvous.

But when it was built there was ferocious opposition. A group of leading artists and writers, including the author of “The Three Musketeers”, Alexander Dumas, filed a petition that read: We, the writers, painters, sculptors, architects and lovers of the beauty of Paris, do protest with all our vigor and all our indignation, in the name of French taste and endangered French art and history, against the useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower.

History vindicated Alexandre Eiffel. In 1889 he was roundly condemned. Today he is praised. His story shows us that what matters is not the opinions others have of us and what we do – these will change according to popular opinions or what is culturally fashionable – but holding onto what we believe to be the values and wisdom of God.

Therefore, never give up, and be confident in what you do. There may be tough times, but the difficulties which you face will make you more determined to achieve your objectives, to be grateful for what you receive, and to win against all the odds.