Measures
We have lots of ways to measure things in life, and we have ways to measure life itself. We have cup measures, teaspoons, tablespoons, beakers, gallon jugs, quart containers, rulers, tape measures, barometers, hygrometers, and thermometers, just to mention a few measuring tools. We make marks on the door, in pencil, to measure our child’s vertical growth. We have scales that may serve to remind some of us just how sedentary we have become.
We could measure our lives by how much money we have in the bank, how big a car we drive, what kind of home we live in, or even how many friends we perceive ourselves to have.
What I want to tell you next is simply my opinion. Your life and mine cannot be measured…except by what is in our hearts. Is your heart filled with kindness or consumed by petty jealousy? Do you want to help your fellow man or woman, or do you prefer to go your own way? Are you ready to say a few kind words whenever you can, or do you prefer to avoid extending yourself, or even giving credit where credit is due? Only you can answer these questions.
In the long run, it is not the size of your waist that matters, or the size of your feet, too little or too big. The true measure of a person’s success is peace in knowing that he/she has does his or her very best. The true reward is not in hearing the applause of others. Ribbons, trophies, Academy Awards are symbols. Fame and the approval of the masses is fleeting and never stands the test of time.
The most important thing in life is to accept yourself and all of your own foibles, whatever they may be. If you don’t like something about yourself, try to change. If you feel you can’t change whatever is bothering you, then concentrate on accepting it.
In the end, there is you, and there is Eternity, and at that point, applause from anyone else matters little.
Patricia Cummings
