Sunday, October 20, 2013

How Much Are You Worth

A story is told of a pastor who while visiting at a hospital would observe the interaction between the folks working there. He noticed that when a doctor walked by the nurses would raise their heads from their work, smile, and acknowledge the doctor as he greeted them.    
A while later the pastor watched as a nurse was walking down the hall and met a custodian who was emptying trash cans. As they met, the custodian raised his head to greet the nurse. At the same moment the nurse lowered her head and walked by without comment. The custodian went back to his work looking dejected.
We all have a desire to feel worthwhile in our homes, around our friends, where we work.
The flip side of that coin is that we should help those around us have worth. Our attitude and responses can either make their day or make them feel miserable.
Sometimes we shoot the messenger. Someone will tell us about a problem and we bark back, especially if the problem involves us. Other times we are quietly given a message and we just push the OK button so we don't have to worry about it. Then sooner or later we end up along the side of the road with a flat tire like I did this week.
When people look at you what do they see? Are they worried and on pins and needles wondering if you will bite?
Or do they know because of past experiences that you have their best interest in mind and that they can trust you?
The girls celebrated Cassia's birthday late and went to Des Moines shopping. They said they had an awesome time and came home with lots of worthwhile bargains.
 Speaking of birthdays Happy 35th to son Mark and Happy 2nd to granddaughter Natalie. Also Happy Anniversary to son Mike and daughter-in-law Suzanne. I'm not exactly sure what day but real soon.
People are worth so much more than things and how we treat folks defines who we really are. Our example outlives our achievements.
Combining next to a cemetery this past week on a farm where I was a kid reminded me we're not on this earth forever. What's your exit plan? Has your life been worthwhile to others? When folks are standing by our grave hopefully they have come out of respect and not just to make sure we're dead.  
We are worth a lot because God made us and for a purpose. Having bins full of corn can give a person security however your net worth is not measured by what you get but by what you give.
What a beautiful moonlit Sunday morning. Indian summer at it's best. Enjoy your day and the people in it.

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