How High?

There is a definite relation between how we treat others and the level of success we achieve. If a dubious expression is about to overtake you allow me to offer four examples from recent and ancient history.

Elvis Shared His Wealth

I was never really smitten with Elvis Presley like a lot of my girlfriends. I bought very few of his records, and saw only a couple of the films he made. But there was something which really caught my attention about this charismatic celebrity; he had a generous and gracious spirit.

I recall a testimony from a woman which appeared in one of the women’s magazines, how Elvis had seen her shopping for a car in a used car lot. She didn’t have very much money and was slowly becoming discouraged by the fact all her finances would buy was a very old, “clunker”, which wasn’t in real good running condition.

As the story progressed, this lady told how the car Elvis was riding in was stopped at the intersection where this used car lot was located. He must have noticed her and sensed she was in need of assistance. Elvis asked the driver to park the car; he got out and asked the lady if she was looking for a car. When she told him she was, but couldn’t find anything dependable due to her finances, he asked her if she would walk with him across the street to the Cadillac dealership. He told her to find a car she liked and he would purchase it for her.

Of course the lady was in a state of disbelieve and shock. But pointed out a car she liked.

At once Elvis purchased the car for her, handed her the keys and wished her well.

Over the years I have read many accounts of how this magnetic man was quick to share his wealth with those less fortunate. Elvis may have left us a legacy with his music but he is much more of a success with how he lived his life with a willingness to help those less fortunate.

Beatrix Potter’s Compassion

I don’t think there is anyone who isn’t familiar with Beatrix Potter and the charming children’s story she created, The Tales of Peter Rabbit. But did you know she sent her illustrated animal stories to a sick child when she was 27? These were the same delightful stories contained in The Tales of Peter Rabbit. Beatrix Potter is honored with The Tale of Peter Rabbit being the best-selling children’s book of all time. And, there were more than twenty sequels to this beloved story, with such characters as Jeremy Fisher, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle. (Reference: Merriam-Webster Collegiate Encyclopedia; page 1299.)