Over the past year, Parker and I have identified four values that will be part of our coat of arms. It was so hard to narrow down the list. So many things we value. And we could have used so many different words. And why not three or five or seven? But these are the four values we landed on as values that we want to define our lives: gratitude, humility, generosity, and courage.
Each value is multi-dimensional. For example, I think humility has degrees of teachability and curiosity. And generosity isn't just a money issue. It's an open-handed approach to life that believes that the more you give up the more you get back. It's all about eternal rewards. I think gratitude for everything is the goal of life. Gratitude is far more important than happiness. In fact, it determines our level of happiness. And we want to live courageously for the cause of Christ.
I'm sure I'll share more thoughts on those four values but they are shaping the way I think, the way I act, and the way I make decisions.
Each value is multi-dimensional. For example, I think humility has degrees of teachability and curiosity. And generosity isn't just a money issue. It's an open-handed approach to life that believes that the more you give up the more you get back. It's all about eternal rewards. I think gratitude for everything is the goal of life. Gratitude is far more important than happiness. In fact, it determines our level of happiness. And we want to live courageously for the cause of Christ.
I'm sure I'll share more thoughts on those four values but they are shaping the way I think, the way I act, and the way I make decisions.
4 Comments:
Mark! Great idea to have a Coat Of Arms and really cool way to saturate the Recticular Activating System!!!
You need to get a "Logo" or create a "Seal" that has an image surrounded by the words of each core value!!
have you thought to turn this into a book or booklet - a how to or idea on what you are doing with your son? I have two daughters and this is inspiring to spend this kind of time with them. Thank you for letting us in on your journey.
Jeff,
I think I need a little more time and experience under my belt. But I will definitely write something at some point. I really feel like parents are "grasping" for ideas. I want to be part of the solution by sharing some of my failures and successes, strengths, and weaknesses....
Blessings,
Mark
Pasor Mark
I have been thinking alot of what legacy that my mother left behind when she passed away unexpectedly. I think you know that was the reason I left Washington DC and came back to Minneapolis. Who she was for me as what values I will live for into the future is brillance, abundance and grace. I will find ways of expresing those values and encourage those values when I see those values express in others.
Thank you, Mark for your friendship even when at the times I saw you as an enemy. Thank you for your generosity when I had nothing to give back. Thank you for encouraging me when I was blind to how small I was thinking
Post a Comment
<< Home