Weekly Thought – April 7, 2015
Fred believed in the impact of influence. He respected the wisdom of others and grew from their input. Now his accumulation of thought is helpful to multiple generations.
Thank you for allowing us the privilege of sharing Fred’s wisdom.
Living Influence
Influence never dies. You may talk to me about the imprint of your parents then say, “but they are dead.” No, they are not for you are still alive and their influence lives on through you – for better or for worse. We each ripple the pond of human life. Some make dainty circles while others make big splashes. Yet the movement of the water continues.
When my friend Dr. Julian Gumperz died in New York City, the newspaper headlined, “The awesome intellect of Dr. Gumperz is gone.” I disagree. It never will be completely gone as long as any of us who learned from him remain active and alive.
This is human immortality.
Once I was introducing dancer Ray Bolger at the Convention Center in Las Vegas. Therefore, I decided to catch his act the night before. It was one of the most touching, philosophical dance numbers I have ever seen. He came on stage with an orchestra out of sight and simply gave the signature dances of the greatest artists of all time. The audience, familiar with these performers, recognized Bill Robinson dancing up the steps, or Fred Astaire tapping from one surface to another.
After all were finished, the lights dimmed and he said in a poignant voice said, “Each of the greats left a little something on the floor.” Each was unique. They left a residue of their art. The lights then went out and a pencil-point spot pricked up a stool. On top of the stool were Ray Bolger’s shoes. He said, “When I go, I would like to leave a little something on the floor.” The crowd broke up.
He was saying what we all desire – to leave a residue of life for others to follow. He felt the influence of others and the responsibility to leave traces behind.
This week think about: 1) Who is currently influencing me? 2) What influence am I exerting in my family, at work, and in the community? 3) How can I choose positive influencers?
Words of Wisdom: “Influence never dies.”
Wisdom from the Word: “So be sure to do them, because this will testify of your wise understanding to the people who will learn of all these statutes and say, ‘Indeed, this great nation is a very wise people.’” (Deuteronomy 4:6 NET Bible)