Blogs - Chief of Pray Blog

God Doesn’t Make Junk

When was the last time you learned something new? I hope it was recently and I hope it happens often. Finding out an interesting tidbit, that you just can’t wait to share, is a real day brightener.

Last night was not one of those times.  I was attracted by a stellar title: Why We Hate the Oil Companies: Straight Talk from an Insider. The World Affairs Council of the Florida Palm Beaches sponsored a program featuring John Hofmeister, a former president of Shell Oil and new book author.  The talk was one big and boring tirade against Washington politics. Yawwwnnn, tell me something I don’t know!

Teach me something new about energy policy, share a story from the days when you were a big shot, or actually deliver the talk that explains why we hate the oil companies. Bait and switch, and I fell for it hook line and sinker!

My bar is high, I’ll admit it. I spend a good part of my day recruiting talent for the Prayables team, and working with our current talented staff. It’s life’s biggest upper to be surrounded by smart people. I’m grateful that’s how I get to spend my time. Morons, jerks and idiots don’t get much slack from me – I’m harsh that way. And before I get criticized for being PI (politically incorrect), I’ll tell you how I define smart.

I don’t care if you have a high IQ, or if you are one of the few who understand credit derivatives: You’re not smart in my book, unless you’re a person who pays attention to what’s going on around you. It’s really that simple. Smart people observe others, they’re open to ideas different from their own and they’re always on the lookout to learn something new.

Back to the big blowhard who droned on and on about nothing. John failed the crucial test: he didn’t pay attention. When you’re talking to someone, pick up their cues. A seat squirming (and sleeping) audience is a sure sign to shut up, change topic or ask a question. Smart people know; it’s not about spouting off some tired old theory, it’s about authentic discussion.

Think about the old saying “God doesn’t make junk.” If we’re all made in the image of God, and God is surely one smart dude (or dudette), then all of us have the potential to be smart— really smart.  Are you living up to your potential? Learn something new today and you will teach by your example. Be the person who others flock to because you’re interesting, you listen and learn.

Raising the Bar

Today is the day of absolute abandon.
Blessings beyond belief.
New perspectives. Ancient traditions.
Friends I haven't met yet.
Listening deeply. Feeling fully.
This is the day I say yes to everything.
Life, love, risk, being in the moment.
Surround me with the sound of church bells,
voices chanting, and children playing.
Give me all that a life can contain
and joy du jour, until my jaw hurts from laughing.
Make it possible for me to do what's right
and still keep it real, and keep it light.

-Ruth Williams