Significance

Achievement is not the same as significance. We can fall prey to the idea that if we do something monumental we will then feel as though we matter. The success we desire is usually something of which other people will take note. Others will admire our riches, our intelligence or our creativity and then we will be important. The truth, however, is that no amount of success, fame, wealth or achievement will provide enough substance to make our lives valuable. True significance – true meaning and worth – are found in loving others unconditionally and being loved by others completely. For then, with this authentic meaning as a foundation, our achievements can be motivated by our freedom and not our compulsion. Certificates will burn, trophies will rust, empires will crumble, reputations will fade, but love remains eternal.

(Photo courtesy of Steve Weldon, World-Famous Mountaineer)