I’m turning 50 this week.

I’m not yet fifty — it’s just six days away — but I thought I’d lead you through my journey, and maybe you’ll learn a thing or two that will help you on your journey.

Intelligence

I want you to believe I’m smart.

I know it sounds so shallow, but it’s true.

I’ve never cared much about how my reputation is affected by opinions about my clothing, vehicles or income.

On the other hand, I hope you think I’m smart.

It’s good discipline to be a lifelong learner.

I’ve met many people who forget that, “God made everything with a place and purpose.” 1  It’s when we think we’re better than other people that our ignorance is most obvious.

In a small rural village in Central America I realized that all of my education, books, tools, and toys were far less important than time spent in a relaxing, thoughtful conversation with loved ones.  There in a dusty impoverished village of a couple hundred people I was taught through word and deed that while education, books, tools, and toys have value, relationships — and specifically people — are most valuable.