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First,
next time you think that you have learned enough about a topic or about your profession, well, then, consider taking up another! Men like Sherman never stopped learning, even though they did not have benefit of easy access to schools. A good strategy to get that extra skill or body of knowledge is to commit to writing a book about topic, then start your research. That is precisely approach of Paul Johnson, British journalist and historian. He decides he wants to learn something. So he goes to library and starts reading. Eventually he produces a book on topic. Then he starts again. Not a bad way to earn a living, if you think about it.
Second, commit yourself to making an impact in your community. Sherman was an elected governmental official for most of his adult life. He played an enormous role in American history during country’s formative years. Now, you don’t necessarily have to run for office, but you do need to do something to impact community beyond your own immediate self-interest and gratification. Figure out what best approach is for you in light of your gifts, talents and interests. Then start and never look back!
Third, remember this simple truth: life is not about how little you can do, but about how much. Roger Sherman died when he was nominally 71, but probably squeezed 120 years of productivity into that time. Yes, he was an exceptional individual. But he was also one of us, a flesh and blood human being with both strengths and weaknesses. Yet look at all that he did! If Sherman were alive today, he would affirm to you this simple truth: you can do more, be more, learn more and serve your community more than you are currently!
What are you waiting for?
Mark Cole, an attorney, has degrees from Baylor, Yale, Notre Dame & University of Houston. To learn more about how the Great Men can inspire and motivate you, visit http://www.ConversationsFromthePast.com.
