How do I measure success?

Leigh and I are most fortunate, and blessed, to have raised 5 beautiful, intelligent, and loving children; a daughter - our oldest, and 4 sons. Our youngest turned 30 this year, so by all rights they are all fully grown. All are in committed relationships - we have nine beautiful grandchildren. (Here's one of Jessie from long ago.)

Recently one of the boys has been experiencing some life issues - haven't we all! The details of our conversation will remain private. The topic though is one on which we all have contemplated. How do I measure my success?

Certain standards may apply depending on where you live. Some would say money, home, or possessions. Some may say family and the richness of relationships. Some would say their contribution to society and culture. Others may ask - Did I leave my mark? (Sometimes good, all too often bad.)

So, I'm going to answer as my father would have, had he been asked that question.

What do you see when you look in the mirror? Answer honestly.

Are you satisfied? Can you do better?

Is this the direction you want for your life? It is never too late to change.

Dale Wimbrow captured this thought in his famous poem.

The Guy in the Glass

When you get what you want in your struggle for pelf,

And the world makes you King for a day,

Then go to the mirror and look at yourself,

And see what that guy has to say.

For it isn't your Father, or Mother, or Wife,

Whose judgement upon you must pass.

The feller whose verdict counts most in your life

Is the guy staring back from the glass.

He's the feller to please, never mind all the rest,

For he's with you clear up to the end,

And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test

If the guy in the glass is your friend.

You may be like Jack Horner and "chisel" a plum,

And think you're a wonderful guy,

But the man in the glass says you're only a bum

If you can't look him straight in the eye.

You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years,

And get pats on the back as you pass,

But your final reward will be heartaches and tears

If you've cheated the guy in the glass.

Dale Wimbrow (c) 1934

1895-1954