I came across an interesting read the other day. It was an interview of the authors of the book Whose Bigger? Where Historical Figures Really Rank. (Skiena, Ward) It was a ranking of human history's most significant figures. the people are not assessed by their individual achievements, instead, they were evaluated by tracing the millions of opinions over time about the significance the person has had on culture (for good or ill).
We go through certain times in our lives when we are prompted to evaluate our own influence on the opinions of others. There is a need to take stock and prioritize what and who is significant in our life.
My dad is the friendliest person I know. when little, sitting in the front seat of our car with dad, I would practically be embarrassed (although deep down, rather proud) as he waved to everyone who passed by. They could be entire strangers, but he acknowledged them like they were his friend. His wave always accompanied a smile and if he were face to face with them he'd be polite in asking them, "How are you doing today?" This was my dad's meme.
A meme is a relatively new word in our English vocabulary. A meme is something of value, usually of a cultural nature that is passed down from one person to another. Others imitate that meme or pattern of behavior and pass it along to others. Often your meme involves the reputation you leave behind that impacts people--again, this could be good or bad.
My dad became known as one of the nicest guys in Algonac. He was sincere and genuine in his caring even if it was just a moment of sharing a friendly conversation. I have many examples which have found a home in who I am as a person because of my father's significance and what he passed on to others. He did things for no other reason than to exhibit a kind heart.
I'm sure many people have good opinions of my dad and his reputation to this day, and probably the first thing they'd mention is: "That Gene Beavers, he is a good man, a man who cares." This is one of his memes. I know. He's passed this value and quality of kindness down to me. I try to follow a similar pattern of friendliness.
Would having a kind heart be at the top of my ranking in life significance? Is it at the top of what is truly important to me and to those around me? I'd say yes...but I want to have at least "a Top 5" list of ranked memes. It is important to me to not only be filled with goodwill for others but to be an example to others so that they too will desire to pass on this spirit of kindness.
What would be your significant behaviors, goals or ways that you'd like to have as part of your meme? When you pause and ponder and evaluate what you give and what you want to leave behind...then, 'wave' a "hello" to the world as you go down the road.
**According to the authors of the book mentioned, the Top Significant Ranking for historical figures: 1. Jesus 2. Napoleon 3. Muhammad 4. Shakespeare 5. Abraham Lincoln