With great regularity my wife comes up with terrific ideas. It’s nice to live with her because I often take the credit for the good things that result from her brilliance. Here’s one of MY latest really bright ideas. Our new puppy Annie walks about the house looking for things to chew. We supplied her with lots of chewy stuff but noticed the novelty of each new item soon wanes and she is off looking for something else. MY new idea is to put the chewy items in the bag with her food. They soak up the flavor and are then received with great unwaning interest.
Very early on in life I learned the value of surrounding one’s self with people who are smarter than I am. My wife is smarter than I. Thus we had children who are smarter than I. I really don’t mind being the dumbest person in the family because of the collateral benefits I then receive. It also works with friends. I must say I have many really brilliant friends. They are fun to be around because they are witty and kind enough to laugh at my often poor attempts at humor. Once again I benefit.
This idea also works in my spiritual life. Some people are easily influenced by those about them. I think I am one of those easily influenced because I note how quickly my conversation degrades or elevates depending upon the moral tone of those about me. I’m a better person when I am with good people. I can be pretty seedy when with those whose conversation focuses on base things. If you are like me and have a malleable character, make it better by spending time with good people, smart people and best of all, spend time each day with Jesus and His word. You will be so pleased the result.
Written by Roger Bothwell on April 23, 2010
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org