Last week, a long-time friend of mine lost his sudden 3 month battle with Leukemia and opted out to a life of eternal riches. He was quite unassuming; yet a remarkable person. He was only 51.
A few years ago, several of us were playing a game of high stakes cards (no money involved, just bragging rights) when a minor dispute unfolded. Jim mediated the situation with a terse observation: "Relax, you're playing for pencil marks on paper".
And so apparently was disclosed the secret of life with an appropriate perspective... our time on Earth is merely pencil marks on paper compared to the balance that awaits us. Jim never sought fame, but he was highly involved. He wasn't blessed with a family of his own; but he knew this was a gift he possessed, so they took in 83 foster kids and helped get them safe refuge, counseled, provided and loved them as though they were family--because everyone was "family" for Jim. Indeed, one of those kids adopted Jim as her legal father. In a world that seems to always be searching for recognition and the spotlight of fame, a humble, simple guy was rewarded (and deserved) the ultimate compliment of being called "Dad"...and by CHOICE of the child.
Memories of sitting shoulder to shoulder with him at the end of the high school basketball bench, crazy times shared through college and recent "men only" annual get-togethers create an interesting bond....and yet, he was totally taken for granted. His passing stirred the realization that simple people, and their actions that touch others, are indeed quite remarkable.
He made plenty of insignificant little scratches on paper in his life; but when the final tally was calculated it comes out to a pretty impressive total that allowed him to add his scratch mark on a saint tally board in heaven. The sum was far greater than the total he ever imagined.
Morale: don't fret the little stuff; worry about the larger issues of your ideals and convictions...the rest is just scratches on paper. (Warning: the next time someone obsesses about trite product details--"this pen should have a different style pocket clip"--please be prepared for a short lesson on "importance"...especially the self-centered kind). Some things matter alot; others not much....hope we all know the difference.
Love ya Jimbo; hope to see you again.