Was blessed to be able to speak at another local Rotary meeting yesterday – an aging group who were quite intrigued throughout my speech. I say ‘aging’ because it comes into play with my post, and mainly the fact the large group was part of the ‘Greatest Generation’ which I admire, and respect so much.
I received an email today from the man whom invited me to speak at the event – one line in particular stood out. He said one man commented, “I did not know they made them like that anymore.” – A true honor to have someone from that generation say those words. They even went on to applaud the Rotary member who asked me to come and speak to the group.
Am I telling you this to pat myself on the back? No. I am writing about my experience because it should light a fire under our young society to achieve so much more. Honor them, and in turn, you will honor yourself. I understand why their generation questions ours; especially for the famous sense of entitlement many (not all) of us seem to think we deserve.
Am I perfect? Nope. I might be the one person you know who is farthest from it, however I am mature enough to understand the mistakes I have made in life, and have been doing my best to correct them. I made a positive change, and found that I could turn my life around through endurance exercise; even better, use it to help others. What is your positive outlet for anger and pain? I can tell you that whatever else you find as a ‘temporary fix’ will not make you, or our generation stronger.
I read a great article in Forbes magazine over the weekend where Sir Richard Branson spoke about if the visionaries and true leaders of the world could get together to solve the world’s problems, they would be fixed – quite a quote from a self-made billionaire. Being blinded by the almighty dollar consumes people into their own little world of greed. One of the men also asked me yesterday why I was not out making millions of dollars like “some of the other famous athletes” (direct quote) of the world. I do not desire to be ‘famous’, and my goal is not to make millions off of the efforts I have exerted thus far. Anyone who knows me understands there is one reason I risk what I do – to inspire those who struggle with motivation to get up, get out and make a difference. Sure, having significant wealth can buy you a lot of things in this world, but it will never buy you happiness. If you think money will, then I truly feel sorry for you. Money buys material – not memories and experiences which inspire, and last generations. You cannot take material with you, however leaving a legacy will last forever.
As I was walking out of the speech yesterday to a round of applause, I was saluted by a man whom I am sure served his country well during a foreign war. Between that, and the email I received today, it sure ranks as one of the proudest moments of my life. Find your path which is worth being saluted over; especially from a member of a generation who knew what it took to ‘get the job done’. If you have, or will earn respect from someone who still understands what that term means, you will understand how I felt.
Perhaps this post is more of a wake-up call for many to get your act together, because the problems plaguing our country today are not going to be fixed by another but ourselves. When you push and struggle through difficulty, you in turn become a ‘hardened’ individual – one who begins to think as a visionary. We need more visionaries and leaders today. How will you become one?
This is for you who believe volunteering means being paid;
This is for you who put a foot on the back of others to get a better view;
This is for you who waste the gift of life through a reckless lifestyle;
This is for you who will give any excuse as to why you cannot accomplish your dreams;
This is for you who forgot it is ‘one nation under God’.
Next time you are feeling a sense of entitlement, ask yourself when the last time was someone ‘saluted’ your efforts. If you are out there giving life your best, then you have a reason to be proud. You will one day be admired as a leader, and remembered forever by your family; present and future.
If you are part of the group which is not giving back to anyone but yourself, and would probably be the first to argue with me over comments in this post, please feel free to contact me anytime – I will be glad to listen to you and your special feelings. You will then be reminded the world does not give a damn.
I would give anything to have granddad and grandpa give me a salute today. I wish I had the opportunity to learn from your sacrifices before you left. I know you are watching over your family.
I hope I make you both proud.