Friday, May 16, 2008

Ordinary People

Two sayings attributed to Mohammad Ali: “It’s hard to be humble when you are as great as I am,” and “It ain’t bragging if you can back it up.”

The first quote I’ve seen numerous times on the desk of business people. Also, my Aunt Ethel was fond of making this quote her own. The second quote I’ve seen in many commercials on TV.

I recently heard a book reviewer who after his allotted time was up kept the floor by asking the audience for questions. In a meeting I conducted, the opening singer asked the audience if they wanted to hear more songs after her time was up .

Do some people think about themselves, talk about themselves using “I” as often as possible. Expect to be appreciated. Trust nobody but themselves. Insist on consideration and respect. Demand agreement with their own views on everything.

The question was asked Marilyn vos Savant: “Why do some people think they’re better than others?” Her answer was “ I believe some people are better than other people-so, in those cases, they’re right. But the rest of the time , it’s just plain wishful thinking. A person is never so empty as when he is full of self.

Have you ever been in the presence of greatness? Perhaps you shook the hand of a world leader. Maybe you got close to a famous athlete. Or you may have had a book signed by a bestselling author.

To be near such icons of popularity and prestige can almost take your breath away. In reality, though, it shouldn’t. They may have done something great, but at the heart of it all they are just like you and me. They are all ordinary people lifted to incredible heights by an extraordinary God.

I have no voice for singing
I cannot make a speech,
I have no gift for music,
I know I cannot teach.
I am no good at leading,
I cannot organize,
And anything I write
Would never win a prize.
It seems my only talent
Is neither big nor rare
Just to listen & encourage
And to fill a vacant chair.
But all the gifted people
Could not so brightly shine
Were it not for those
Who use a talent such as mine.
R. R. Belter

No comments: