There are a lot of ways that people can identify me. I could identified as a Radio Personality – I’ve worked in broadcasting going on 14 years now. I could be identified as a Firefighter – I’m proud to have served as a Volunteer Firefighter since 2000. What other qualities or traits could one use? I could be identified as a resident of the town where I live. Perhaps by physical appearance. Those who know me well could identify me as a hermit!
Have you ever stopped and wondered how you might be identified by others? Morbid as it may be, have you ever taken a moment to ponder your legacy when the sands run out on the hourglass of this life?
Jorma Hogbacka has such a wonderful story. Perhaps you recognize the name. This past week he came forward as one of the winners of a near $45,000,000 Lotto 6/49 jackpot. His share of the winnings – $14.8 million.
Not much is known of this man. He is 60 years old. He is retired. His wardrobe of choice, track suits. If you’re comfortable, why not? Regardless of the little we do know, perhaps the most poignant insight into this man was revealed by a single act following his win.
Mr Hogbacka was a regular customer at a Tim Horton’s in St. Catharines Ontario. Over the years he had developed a friendly relationship with half a dozen employees at his favorite spot. In conversations sprinkled throughout his visits he often said that one day, when he won the lottery, he wouldn’t forget them!
As of Saturday, Mr Hogbacka has made good on his word, and despite the little we do know of him we now know this… he is a man of integrity! To each of the 6 employees of Tim Horton’s, many whom have long since moved on in their lives, $30,000!
My hat is off to you sir. Society needs an example like you. A flesh and blood illustration of that which we should all be so noble as to aspire to. An individual who says what he means, and means what he says! You are an inspiration!
Beauty, like blossoming flowers in a spring garden, will fade. Possessions, like dust in the wind, are here for a moment, and gone in the next. Money can be lost in an instant, even more quickly than it can be collected. A successful career, without warning, can swiftly be replaced with a position in the unemployment line. So much of what we hold in high regard, so much of what we use to assess self worth, so much of what we work towards, and for, is really of little value. When the rest has disappeared, one remains… integrity!
I don’t mind being recognized for being a Firefighter, or a Radio Personality, or a Voice Talent, or a nice guy, a shy guy or a quiet guy. However, when the light switch if flicked off for the final time, my daily prayer is that I will be remembered as a man of great integrity, and with each passing moment, I strive to make it true!
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