What’s Most Important To You?
By Jeff Whitaker
How often do you question what really matters in life? For me, the question hit square in the face one day as I drove by this pile of discarded trophies near my home. I couldn’t believe what I saw. I had to drive back and take a picture. As I sat on the side of the road to take a photo, I began to think about what these trophies most likely represented. I’m certain there are scores of stories behind each one of these symbols of accomplishment. There was no doubt years of practice, dedication, hard work and time that went into what it took to earn these trophies. But for some reason, and I can only speculate, someone saw fit to toss them all by the curb for the garbage truck.
Maybe the person who earned these trophies died. Perhaps the family is moving and just doesn’t have the space to display them, or it could be that what it took to achieve these trophies is a painful reminder of time lost with loved ones, or too high a price that was paid. It could be that these trophies no longer hold the meaning they once did. Life has moved “their owner” to a new place with new priorities and interests.
At any rate, they ended up piled at the curb, discarded.
It reminded me of the words of Jesus. He said to not lay up treasures here on earth where moth and rust will corrupt but lay up treasures in Heaven (or prioritize the things in life that have lasting value). He said where your treasure is, that’s where your heart will be as well.
Whatever joy, sense of accomplishment or pride represented by these trophies in the end amounted to nothing that has lasting value. So, it leads me to ask you a question. It’s a question we are all better off for asking. What impact are you and I making today that has lasting value and investment in the things that really matter? The truth is, in the end, it is not “things” that matter but people. It is the time and effort we invest in those most important and closest to us. Whatever story your life is telling, make sure it is making a positive, lasting impact on the people you encounter every day. Because unlike the trophies we accumulate which eventually lose their shine, the relationships we invest in hold far greater significance and lasting value.
