We all face
decisions in our lives. Some are small
and perhaps will seem very insignificant in the overall stream of things. Some are large and may have a major impact
not only on ourselves, but upon all those around us. Perhaps for generations to come --- some
decision WE make could have
major repercussions.
Think of the life
of Christ. For almost 2000 years the
things he taught and spoke have been affecting the lives of millions of
individuals. Of course, there are none
of us that would have that type of effect from what WE do. But think of other individuals within the
past hundred years: Albert Einstein, John Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and so
many others, including many women. True
WE may never achieve the status or caliber of one of these individuals, but can
we make decisions in our lives that will have the potential for greatness? WE CAN! And those around us or in the future
generations will benefit also. But this
will require a SPECIAL decision. That
decision will be “not to be so self centered.”
I recall a “test”
which was related to us in my sociology class when I was in college. I know some of you will think that I am
presently unable to think that many years back, but I assure you I am. There was a “special” lecture that was given
concerning Jesus’ account in the Bible about the “neighborly Samaritan”. In the lecture it was clearly explained WHO
could be constituted as being “our neighbor” and how one should show true
interest and concern in others --- even if they are not the same nationality,
skin color, or believe the same as we do.
The “test” [that
is the real test as to whether the students in the audience had in fact learn
the lesson which was being taught that day] came AFTER the lecture was
over and everyone was leaving. It had
been intentionally arranged that a “sickly bum” would stop various ones of the
students asking for help. Sadly, the
clear majority “didn’t have the time” or compassion to extend a helping hand
--- even though they had just left the lecture on the “neighborly Samaritan.”
Sadly for many we
are still “failing” that test even today!
We “pass by” so many individuals who are in need of some type of assistance,
but we are “too busy” or “unconcerned” to put forth the helping hand. This type of thing goes on many times over in
the everyday world.
We don’t have to
be that way. Just remember: A big man
(or woman) is not measured by how many people they are STANDING ON so as
to appear tall, but how many people they are SUPPORTING by their efforts
and lifting them above the crowd.
And the beautiful
thing about caring and compassion is that it doesn’t depend on what you have as
much as it depends on how much you care.
Rather it depends on your willingness to do something if it is within
your power to do it.
QUOTE TO CONSIDER
THOUGHTFUL GEM
"If you ever think of yourself as a loser ---
watch 'It's a Wonderful Life.'"