True achievements
less fleeting

Here are two quizzes with a telling point:

First quiz:

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest.
4. Name 10 people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

Second quiz:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
6. Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you.

The lesson:

None of us remembers the headliners of yesterday even when they were the best in their fields. The applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten.

The people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money or the most awards. They are the people who care.

--Richard Halloran

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