To My Magnificent Agents, Staff and Friends:
Recently I was reading an article about the famous American general, Douglas McArthur. Most of the story dealt with his defeats and victories during World War II, but the author did dedicate a few paragraphs in describing McArthur’s role as a parent. It is a part of his life that has been given little attention in comparison to his renown as a military leader, but being a proud father and grandfather, I both identified and was moved by McArthur’s statement that, “By profession I am a Soldier and take pride in that fact, but I am prouder to be a father.”
I was also touched by the fact that during the early days of World War II, while he was under extreme pressure from the advancing Japanese forces, McArthur penned this simple prayer to his son. It is not only a beautiful expression of a father’s love and desire for his child, it is also an excellent example of what we all should ask for when praying for God’s guidance, not only for our children, but for ourselves.
Build me a son whose wishes will not take the place of deeds; a son who will know Thee – and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.
Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here let him learn to stand up in the storm; here let him learn compassion for those who fail.
Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high, a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men, one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.
And after all these things are his, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, and the meekness of true strength.
Then, I his father, will dare whisper, “I have not lived in vain.”
The only thing I can add to those profound words is a hearty “Amen!”
Have an AWE-full weekend!
Bill