Checkerboard King

 

“When we truly become converted to Jesus Christ, committed to Him, an interesting thing happens: our attention turns to the welfare of our fellowman, and the way we treat others becomes increasingly filled with patience, kindness, a gentle acceptance, and a desire to play a positive role in their lives. This is the beginning of true conversion.” Marvin J Ashton

My unemployed friend, Bob, didn’t see the benefits of learning the basic skills needed to use a cell phone, operate a computer, and drive a car even though some assumed that he could.  I thought that perhaps it was his poor eyesight and limited budget that made him appear so unaware of the need to master these skills.  As we became better acquainted, I learned that he was a very intelligent man who due to his poor health, speech, eyesight and circumstances beyond his control appeared as if he wasn’t as intelligent and talented as he really was. 

Bob came up with an ingenious idea for a checkerboard setup.  He entered his idea as an exhibit at the State Fair and won first prize. He felt overjoyed. None of his other accomplishments was ever recognized. His feeling of success was only momentary, though, as the harsh reality of his life came back to slap him in the face. The realization that he had limitations always discouraged him, but he tried hard not to allow that to stop him from trying to do the simple things that he could do well.

We had similar attitudes about discouragement, but his tenacious buoyancy was always a lift to me whenever I felt down.  I was never critical of his shortcomings and perhaps, that is one reason why we stayed friends.  It was never a sacrifice to give of my time and means to help him. Bob was a kindred spirit who taught me one life’s most important lessons.

 

Tags: Friendships Service RuntoTomorrow Charity

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