96th Birthday Ceremony on October 14, 2006
John Wooden, legendary basketball coach at UCLA, died recently at the age of 99. While Coach Wooden was known for winning (10 NCAA titles in 12 years), he never once stressed winning with his players. His philosophy was, “Always do your best and the winning will take care of itself.” He also believed his players should be good citizens. He repeatedly told them, “What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.” Several years ago, when asked about the secret to his long life, he responded with some sage advice that all of us should probably take to heart: “Not being afraid of death and having peace within yourself. All of life is peaks and valleys. Don’t let the peaks get too high and the valleys too low.”
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Hi Ross … have been so disgusted about those who “embelish” their military record, I mostly don’t even tell anyone anymore. When in uniform, I wear the most insignificant three ribbons I can get away with. Occasionally I’ll get called by an O-6 or flag who know me and want to know where the rest are.
On the subject of letting the valleys too low … they are really low lately. I work for one of the largest private employers in AZ and so far have been reminded about once a month that … ” if you can’t do it, there are lots of folks looking for a job who WILL do it …”. This is not something that engenders loyalty and goodwill and I am now looking for another position likely out of state.
Thank you so much for your comments. I am deeply saddened by your negative work situation, but it could be the opening to something new and very exciting. So, stay positive and focus on the future. I wish you nothing but the best. Ross