The Inscription
I watched the motion picture epic "Lean on Me" on cable television last night. This movie was inspired by the real life story of one man's unwavering determination to help a population of academically deficient students exceed the State of New Jersey's required literacy test standards. Enough of the background history lesson. I'm sure that most of you are familiar with the story of Joe Clark. In the midst of viewing the movie (for the umpteenth time) something unique occurred to me. Last night, was the first time I was actually able to understand why Principal Clark left a seemingly peaceful, controlled elementary school environment to return to the trenches of the worst school in New Jersey. His decision was influenced by a simple challenge. He was challenged by the Super-Intendent of schools to finally do something "significant" with his life.
Wow! I pondered about that phrase for a second ... 'a significant life'. Then I thought of a few questions that I want to pose to you. I know what my personal views are but I'm especially interested in hearing yours. What criteria do you think should be used to gauge the significance of one's life? Have you lived in such a manner that would allow you to leave a positive mark on the world as a significant individual? Has your existence made the life of any non-relative more comfortable, convenient, pleasant, or peaceful? Who are three individuals that you feel have led significant lives? Finally, do you think you could find three others who would attest that you have led a significant life?
Many people, including myself have a tendency to get caught up in the endless cycle of pursuing wealth, prestige, and popularity. Ironically, it often seems that the most significant stories derive as a result of what an individual has been willing to give to other, (i.e to personally sacrifice) as opposed to what they have amassed. Can you imagine what type of world we would live in if people placed more value on significantly impacting the lives of others? Perhaps that idea is a bit far fetch but guess what... on this blog "I am the H.N.I.C" and I say anything is possible. Be Blessed.
Corey R.
2 comments:
Wow this is quite a loaded set of questions.
I think the old song says “If I can help somebody along the way, then my living shall not be in vain.” Funny, I can almost envision my grandmother singing that aged old song as she spent countless hours in the kitchen cooking a meal large enough to feed about 30 people, on any given Sunday. Please bear in mind she only had a family of 7 (including me). When asked why she always cooked as if she was a chef for the Army, she would always say “you never know who may be in need of a hot meal”. Well not only did I get that message but I guess about 10-15 additional church members, who just happened to be in need of a hot plate, seemed to get this message every Sunday. You see for grandma it has never been about it an accumulation of wealth, knowledge, accolades, respect, material items, etc. It has always been her pleasure to simply serve people. What makes it even more interesting is that even though she seemed to have very little desire to acquire those “worldly” things I just mentioned. over the years she seems to have received them all. Kinda makes me wonder if true happiness and desires can only granted through the significant act of giving.
While I have yet to reach Grandma’s level of “significance” I would like to believe that I have in many ways contributed to the happiness of others. However, there are oftentimes that I find myself indulging in self-centered activities knowing that my time, energy, money and efforts could be better spent helping someone else. Just think; the hour I spent chatting on the phone with my girlfriend about how “worthless” men are is the same hour I could have spent helping some young person understand the value of people. In retrospect valuable people are much more important than a man bashing session. I guess I have alot more work to do if I ever want to truly leave my significant mark on this place we call earth.
I truly hope that this blog serves as eye opener to everyone. Life is not all about you. In the grand scheme of things your physical being is pretty insignificant, it’s what you do with this life that you were given that will determine your significance.
Wow! One things for sure, Ms. Anonymous... your comments prove that one does not necessarily need to reveal her identity in order to make a 'significant' statement. I value your feedback. Thanks so much.
Corey R.
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