Greatness is not a Right

Going above and beyond what is required leads to greatness -Unknown

There was a day in America's history where people pushed themselves above and beyond what was expected not even expecting a pat in the back.  They pushed themselves and rose to the occasion, yet when they were called great or heroes, they blushed.  They didn't see themselves as great or heroes, but common people doing what anyone else in their shoes would do.  Those type people still exist, but they are a dying breed.  And that because our philosophies are changing.  We used to teach "go the extra mile" or "strive for excellence."  Today's philosophy dictates that we do as little as possible expecting outstanding results.  In fact, we believe we deserve greatness without achievement............what nonsense.  Charles Spurgeon said, "No Sweat, No Sweet".  I agree!  If you want to reap a great harvest, you must sow the seed needed.  We want the acolades our predecessors had without the work it took them to achieve titles they never sought for.  David Robinson, former San Antonio Spur, was recently inducted to the Basketball Hall of Fame.  As I heard him speak on the acolades ascribed to him, it became very apparent that he realized the impact other had made on his career.  He gave credit to those around him for helping him reach that pinnacle of success.  Some one once said, if you see a turtle on a fence post, you know it had help getting there.  I think Mr. Robinson did an excellent job of letting us know he had help getting on that fence post.  I believe we must all get back to striving for excellence and not settling for mediocre.