This week I am recovering from some minor surgery and enjoying the care of my daughter, husband and friends. Each phone call, email, gift card and meal have been appreciated more than you can imagine. I am very blessed by my family and friends.
Years ago, this email circulated; my first copy of it is from 2003. It was credited to Charles Schultz, the creator of a the Peanuts Cartoons (but this link says it is not actually his — you can make your own decision). No matter who wrote it – the message of these words are valuable.
You don’t actually have to take the quiz. Just read this straight through and you’ll get the point. It is trying to make an awesome point!
Here’s the first quiz:
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for
best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners.
How did you do?
The facts are, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.
Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
6. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you.
Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.
I can name so many important people in my life — this week has been a good reminder of these blessings. I send my thanks to each one of them and most of all to my Lord who provides me with such good gifts.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”Philippians 1:3-6
