I've always collected quotes throughout my life: posted them on my wall in my classrooms, shared them with friends, etc. So for this post (and perhaps others in the future), I'll share a quote that inspired me and a brief reflection on it. I think it'll be fun to see what I choose.
"I know in my heart that man is good. That what is right will always eventually triumph. And there's purpose and worth to each and every life." ~ Ronald Reagan
There are some things you read...or hear...or see for the first time, and the beauty and Truth expressed through them just stops you in your tracks. It's as if every fiber in your being just got strummed and you don't want that feeling to go away. It can happen when you see a soothing sunset; or hear a beautiful song; or read something inspiring.
I have never forgotten the first time I read the above quote from President Reagan. It was when Deborah and I first visited the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA 18 years ago. Mr. Reagan has always been a hero of Deborah's, and over time my admiration for him has steadily grown. The quotation is etched on his gravesite on the grounds there.
I pray that I can remember each day the three things the President said with such conviction and optimism here. But I know that it's so easy to be convinced that none of these are true, especially in the divisive times that we currently live. There is a constant drumbeat - especially in the media today - that wants us to believe that
Only 1/2 of mankind is "good" - The 1/2 that agree with me. And as for the other 1/2, they must be despised or dismissed.
Darkness is destined to carry the day. It seems as if nothing that I knew as right and honorable is important anymore. If fact, if it’s even mentioned, one is rebuked and “cancelled” (just ask Harrison Butker of the Chiefs)
And lastly, there seems to be the message that there is we are powerless to do anything to change this downward spiral within our society. Especially if one is an “over the hill boomer” like me. The world no longer values the wisdom of age, instead gorges on Tik-Tok nonsense and “influencers”.
But none of those are true. Life always gives us the choice: to rise or fall; To decide what it is that we really love and will give ourselves to freely. Darkness can never overcome Light.
So I will do my best today to remember the President's words and look for a little Light in any moment when a little darkness wants to tell me, "There's nothing good here" or “Just give up. It doesn’t matter”.
I can always work to be an embodiment of what it is that I say and love.
“The deeds you do may be the only sermon some people will hear today” ~ St. Francis of Assisi
What a precious thing to be reminded of....Thank you, Mr. President. Inspiring words like these are few and far between from today's leaders. I guess it's up to others…like me…like you… to share something brighter.