What do you want!
The older you get, the more you think, and the more you think the more clear things become. It seems the theme of every commercial on TV these days is about what we want or what the advertiser wants us, to want! After all, sales are driven by percieved desire of the goods being peddled! If you believe what you are told, sales matter, money makes the world go around.
After three quarters of a century of life I’m not buying it! I’ve had plenty of money and I’ve had very little money and the quality of my life has not been much different either way. So If not money, what do I want? How about fame? I’ve had a very small amount and it’s not what it’s cracked up to be. Then how about power? Those that have it have made most of us wonder if it’s such a great thing or that obviously it corrupts and destroys those that “think” they have it and can wield it!
No, after years of careful thought and prayer, I want to make a difference in the lives of others. When I’m gone the only real evidence of my existence here on earth will be what is in the hearts of those that knew me and loved me. Why would anyone love you? I believe it will only be because you thought of them first, before yourself. Now that is not easy to do, it is not our nature to care more for others than ourselves, but it is the only way to leave anything of value when you’re gone. I hope you want that too!
I just lost a dear cousin who was a physician for many years and left thousands of patients and family members that remember him with great fondness and appreciation. He was a great Doctor, a wonderful friend, and loving family member and a man of great character and integrity. He left the only thing of value any of us can leave, a family and group of friends that will miss him, and cherish his memory. I’m proud to share our family name, Fortney. We’re all better because of the life he lived and the great honor he brought to our name.
Dr. Thomas Guy Fortney July 11th, 1924 – January 7th, 2022
Most people say Rest In Peace, but I know he is back at work in the Kingdom serving the Lord He served through out his life. He gave more than he took, should that be said of all of us.
blessings,
the pilgrim
This entry was posted on Friday, February 4th, 2022 at 3:22 pm
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Well said Bill and so very true. In four days I too will reach the 3/4 of a century status. It is so amazing that a lot of the things I thought were so important and desirable are not. What is important is family and friends and helping them live a good life.
Blessings Bill.
It’s a good thing to come to this point and get it!
So well said, Bill. I know the influence you have had on my life – and that of many others who frequent this site. And, at times I most need lifting and reminded of who I am truly serving, you have always provided the answer and reassurance that making the commitment to follow Jesus is the right one. Thank you for sharing about your cousin…may his memory comfort his family and friends for many years.
Thanks Scott, They are in God’s hands!
Bill, great post. As I approach being on this earth for 78 years, topics like this seem to enter my thoughts more and more frequently.
Having family and friends believe that you gave more than you took would be a wonderful epitaph!
I am still hard at work to make this true for me.
I can’t know all that you have “taken” but I do know that you have given a lot — so I am pretty sure you are in a very good position right now.
Pray I am, work on it everyday!