I struggled with my own identity early in life. Others whispered their ideas about who I was or who I would become. Does this sound familiar to you? As humans, we are taught to find a model-"a system or thing used as an example to follow or imitate"-to fit in. Finding or even following this model may seem impossible.

All of us need what I call a North Star. A North Star is something or someone guiding you to who you know you are supposed to become and guiding you to what you are supposed to be doing.

After giving my heart to the Lord Jesus Christ, I found my North Star. God inspired me to look beyond the more superficial sources of identity and look to the eternal. It is my belief that this book will serve as a guidepost pointing to your eternal selves. It is my hope that you will embrace this lesson as I have. If you do so, you will learn not only who you truly are but also how you fit into this world and God's master plan.

You will be introduced to three of the most influential factors in life:

• Self
• Culture
• Purpose

I believe if you embrace the lessons of this book, you will be able to answer the fundamental question "Do you know what's invested in you?" just as I did. May God enlighten you on your journey. Amen.