THE HIGHEST PRIORITY

I believe the essence of human life lies somewhere in the choices we make. On one side of town a little baby boy is born. He chooses to be a bum and that’s what he becomes and what he is. On the other side of town another little baby boy is born. He chooses to become a teacher and that’s what he becomes and what he is.

Yes, I know all the arguments. There are two sides of town. There are better chances on one side of town because of wealth, where poverty prevails on the other. Where I work (sometimes), I have talked to literally 100’s who I actually believe had very little opportunity while growing up to manhood. But, I also believe there are many factors that lead to the choices we make, and to be successful and of service to others we must make the right ones. Some of those guys could have made better choices.

Prioritize! What’s really important in life and what is not? I grew up in what became a wealthy community—at least for a few. My cousin informed me the other day there are now 5 billionaires living there and one who still has ties. Pretty good for 2000 people, wouldn’t you think?

Not us! We had three squares every day. Mom’s hot rolls were the most famous in town. My Dad had an Associates Degree and worked hard in the oil patch to make us a living. We weren’t poor—but we were a long way from wealthy.

Instilled in us somewhere was that prioritization. What comes first? We were four children, each ending up with multiple college degrees. Choices! Those degrees are not the important issues. Mine are still in their sacks in the bottom of my underwear drawer. I love it so much I am working on another advanced right now. I've been over the hill for some time--so the say.

Choices got first place in our lives. They claimed our time, our energy, and all our resources. But, trust me—I think it had nothing to do with college degrees. It had to do with purpose, direction, and meaning in our lives. I had parents that instilled that in me.

You see, the side of town you live on is not the real issue. Being wealthy must have its advantages. I will never know. One thing I will always know: you need purpose, meaning and direction in your life? Make the right choices! You can’t do better than that. And, if you have children, help them along the same paths.

There are spiritual choices as well. We are becoming a people without emphasis in the proper places. When one speaks of priorities one must include spiritual, moral, and lifestyle issues. We follow One who offered us a better way (John 10:10). Let’s get together and talk about Him today. Write me

You know HE! loves you and I do too! h