A few days ago I posted a blog encouraging you to "invest in yourself." That advice is still valid but there is yet a better investment. Write it down.
"Invest in others"
The most passionate and excited people I know are those who have chosen to invest their lives and resources to help other people. The staff at Compassion International are those kind of people. Mother Theresa was such a person. Lisa Stephen with Hope house of Colorado is transforming the lives of unwed teenage mothers. The devoted teachers and staff at National Association of Street Schools are more of an inspiration to me than all of the successful Wall Street brokers put together.
I experienced one of the greatest joys of my career last week when I was privileged to help raise over 2 million dollars to help feed poverty stricken children around the world. There was no applause. No news vans came to the door, but as I drifted off to sleep that night I realized that this was an investment of time and effort that would go farther than I could ever travel and have effects longer than I would live. My small investment in these organizations is more important than "My Career." This is the purpose of "My Career." It is good to invest in yourself. It is even better to use the returns to invest beyond yourself. If you doubt this, look at the example set by Christ.
All of us have watched on television the tragic shell of a man who invested only in himself. He will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison. I am guessing that he has been living in a prison of his own making for many years.
Some one once said, "There are only two kinds of people in the world; givers and takers. The takers eat better. The givers sleep better."
Invest in others. Rest well tonight.
I couldn't agree with you more. Thanks for all the heart you pour into what you do.
Posted by: Michele Cushatt | March 19, 2009 at 05:01 PM
I am trying to be a giving machine these days. It just feels right. I must admit, however, that I enjoy giving to children more. Their gratitude is genuine and that's the fuel that ignites my Lovewalk. Laughing with you does too, Ken!
Posted by: Terry(apostlethatroks) | March 19, 2009 at 06:10 PM
I really like this post. I'm trying to balance those two premises right now. Investing in myself and investing in others. I tend to over do the latter and forget about me. I am learning balance.
Your generous/genuine nature is what put DCW on my radar 7 years ago. I was struggling with a bible study, contacted your group and asked permission to use your tapes. You contacted me back personally, and we dialogued briefly - I never forgot your generosity and verbal encouragement.
Great post. I appreciate the thoughts.
Posted by: Deana O'Hara | March 19, 2009 at 08:26 PM
Oh I love Compassion! AND Carlos and I have been having lots of talks lately and I totally ripped off Diane's words and spoke her words to him! Invest in yourself! :) H
Posted by: whitakerwoman | March 19, 2009 at 09:26 PM
so very true! thank you for setting a great example to the rest of us.
at the end of the day, we will all sleep better knowing we have helped someone other than just ourselves.
Posted by: Krissy | April 02, 2009 at 07:12 PM
My daughters and I watched, "I'm Not OK" last night. Investing in others with laughter to boot, is just the ultimate!
Posted by: Colleen | May 09, 2009 at 02:15 PM