Sometimes we get our priorities mixed up. We get caught up in the importance of the trappings of the world —- money, status, material things or culture.  When this happens they rise to the top of the heap in importance.  Then for some of us, our own self-importance or ego is the highest priority.  In the last few weeks, there are been some incidents that have pointed this out to me. Consider the following stories.

My neighbors are new parents.  We were talking about the new baby and her comment was that her whole world had changed. Her words were, “So many of the things that were important before are no longer important.”  Her whole perspective is different.  As she stood and held her son, I could tell that indeed her whole focus had changed. A lot of us can identify with this as we have also been changed by a new person, baby or adult, entering our lives. Someone to love and love us can make all the difference!

Contrast that to the following situation. A friend of mine recently worked at some summer festivals and hired people to survey the crowd.  The workers were given a $1.25 aprons to hold extra pencils, give-aways, etc. as they collected surveys.  At one festival there were 16 workers over a 2-day period of time. It was very hot and the whole scene was chaotic with that many people passing completed and uncompleted surveys back and forth across the table.  In the madness, two aprons were lost.  My friend’s supervisor was adamant that whoever had not returned the $1.25 apron should do it immediately. E-mails and phone calls did not unearth the aprons. Who knows what happened to them.  The question is:  How important is it to find two $1.25 aprons?  How important is it that the people working in that heat did not get sick?

I recently received a card for two wonderful people who were concerned about my welfare.  I have encountered some very stressful situations and they offered prayers for me. Since I barely know these people, I was in tears as I opened their card. Others have also expressed concern and have done thoughtful things that are much appreciated. A friend helped me for three days, voluntarily, with some very tiring and hard work – because she cared about me.  Another has been there to listen and boost spirits.

Contrast the first and third story with the second one.  What is really important?  Is it two $1.25 aprons, or is it a genuine concern for others.  Six months from now what will be remembered?  Two years from now what will be important?  I think these stories speak for themselves. So, what is the piece of wisdom you can take from this? What do you think is really important?