Zig Ziglar made the final ascent to the “top” when he passed away on November 28. He has left behind a legacy to millions of people who were touched by his messages during his lifetime and to millions more who will continue to follow his books, talks, and life for many years down the road.

Ziglar’s first book, See You at the Top, was rejected by thirty publishers before it was published by Pelican in 1975, when he was 49 years old. The book went on to sell 250,000 copies. His thirtieth book was published this year, at age 86.

Thousands upon thousands have changed their lives through the messages of Zig Ziglar. Whether it was through his books, live events, or media stories around the globe, he touched, encouraged, and sparked an almost irresistible motivation to succeed.

There’s no way to know just how many times his words were quoted but he certainly must have been one of the most quoted people (at least by those in selling and business) during his lifetime. Forbes magazine announced his passage with an article headline, “Zig Ziglar 10 quotes that can change your life.” And Goodreads lists an amazing 75 power quotes that have been treasured and held on to by many.

Zig Ziglar is certainly positive proof of the power of using books (he called books on tape your “automobile university”) to further not only your business and your career, but your life itself.