I received this interesting piece via email in the past fortnight, and have edited to suit an Australian setting. The world is under the impression that earthly authority will make a heavenly difference. It won't -- and to prove this point, take this quiz:

• Name the ten wealthiest people in the world.
• Name the last ten Brownlow medal winners.
• Name the last ten winners of the Miss Australia contest.
• Name eight people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
• How about the last ten Gold Logie Award Winners.
• The last decade's worth of World Series Cricket winners?

I could name at least one in every category, but I didn't do particularly well. Perhaps with some exceptions you may have done a lot better, but statistically speaking none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.

Surprising how quickly we forget, isn't it?  And what were mentioned above were no second-rate Achievements.  These are the "Best of the Best" in their fields. But do you know something; the applause will soon fade away, awards will become tarnished, achievements will be forgotten, and accolades and certificates are usually buried with their owners.

Now here is another quiz.  See how you do on this one:

• Think of 3 people you enjoy spending time with.
• Name 10 people who have taught you something worthwhile.
• Name 5 friends who have helped you in a difficult time.
• List a few teachers who have aided your journey through school.
• Name half-a-dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you.

Are we making a difference?

Gary
July 23, 2000
 

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