As I watched the local politician pontificate to the news reporter about the myriad of their accomplishments in their soon ending career I was struck by how they never once thanked or gave credit to anyone else.
Ironic, because during their self congratulatory comments the news was running videos of countless folks engaged in backbreaking work.
Great philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who gave millions of dollars for education, the arts, peace and diplomacy, and created a fund that recognizes and rewards heroism offers these poignant words. “No person will make a great leader who wants to do it all themselves, or to get all the credit for doing it.”
Carnegie, who began his life with very humble means, started working long hard hours as a young boy in the factories and railroads. He eventually climbed the ranks to become a very successful business person in the steel industry. He never forgot all those who toiled beside him and as his capacity increased he shared the success with others.
History is filled with those who have taken the credit for great accomplishments that in fact were the fruits of other’s labors. Blood, sweat and in the most extreme cases lives have been sacrificed and with little to no acknowledgment or appreciation for those who have given so much.
For me one of the most iconic depictions of this comes in a scene from Mad Men when ad executive Don Draper’s protege Peggy Olson comes to him desperately seeking appreciation his reply is, “That’s what money is for!” Don is completely clueless to the fact that Peggy’s long hours, stress and personal sacrifice deserve more than just a monetary transactional response.
No one likes to be treated like a nameless cog in the machinery. Many of us have no desire to be the person in the front of the room or talking to the reporter. Yet each of us wants to be valued and respected for who we are and the contributions we make. To be seen, acknowledged and affirmed: “many parts – one body.”
Paul’s words of encouragement to the faith community in Philippi may be the best advice…
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:3-4