My philosophy

Below is a part of my philosophy of life. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read it and you'll get the point.

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 point is, most of us don’t remember the headliners of yesterday. They are not 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.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are NOT the ones with the most credentials, the most money, the most recognition, or the most awards. They are the ones who care.

Neal A. Maxwell, All These Things Shall Give Thee Experience [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1979], 61
Are not the real heroes and heroines of today those who are givers rather than demanders, those who are selfless rather than selfish, those who share rather than grab, those who care about tomorrow as well as today, and those who do their duty quietly without the accompaniment of crashing cymbals and trumpets?

If you would be remembered by your posterity, and by your friends, be a giver. If you would make a difference, be a giver. The venerable primary song, Give Said the Little Stream(1), says it all:

“Give, said the little stream, Give, oh! give, give, oh! give. Give, said the little stream, As it hurried down the hill. I’m small, I know, but wherever I go, the fields grow greener still.”

1. Words: Fanny J. Crosby, 1820–1915 Music: William B. Bradbury, 1816–1868. Arr. © 1989 IRI


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