Supreme​ Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes found himself in quite a predicament one day, according to a story I once heard. Apparently Holmes had misplaced his ticket while traveling on a train. He searched for it, obviously irritated, as the conductor stood by waiting. Finally the train official told Holmes, “Your Honor, if you do not find your ticket, you can simply mail it to the railroad. We know and trust you.” Holmes replied, “I am not so concerned about your getting my ticket. I just want to know where I’m going.”

Justice Holmes had forgotten where to get off his train. So consumed with the present—perhaps a pressing case—he had forgotten his future destination.

Beginning with the end in mind is where we all need to start. Call it your picture of the future—a predetermined idea and vision of where you would like to end up in life. In other words, like Justice Holmes, where do you want to get off “your train?”

Many will say, “Heaven, heaven, heaven.” But what about some final “destinations” on earth that will ensure heaven here as well as at the end of your life’s trajectory?

For example, where do you want your marriage to end up? In “Rocksville” or “Committedville?” Are you doing what it takes today to have a loving and fulfilling marriage in the future?

Where do you want to end up relationally? In “Lonelyville” or “Friendsville?” Is the way you are treating others today going to result in a destination where you will be surrounded with ongoing support and companionship?

And where do you wish to get off financially in the future? In “Richville” or “Contentedville?” The way you view money, generosity, and retirement today will influence your future destination.