THE CHRISTIAN WORK ETHIC NEWSLETTER
March 2005
In February, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit with Margaret Rose Sanford, wife of North Carolina's late Governor Terry Sanford. I enjoyed talking with her and signing her copy of my book A Worker Need Not Be Ashamed in which I include a wonderful story about her husband.
When I was nineteen years old and working in the broadcasting business, I wrote the Governor and asked if he would record a congratulatory message to the radio station on its tenth annniversary. Governor Sanford not only invited me to his office but also insisted that I stay with him an entire afternoon. The Governor wanted me to see history in the making as he made a number of proclamations that day including aviation week in North Carolina. Wow! What a history lesson from one who was known as the education Governor!
While I must admit that I don't remember everything which took place, I do remember a greater lesson which has impacted my life and which can help any worker: Regardless of your position or your power or your title, remember to have humility in your heart and reach out to others in need!
The working world is a cold place; it needs some warm radiation from the hearts of workers everywhere!
In one of his movies, Clint Eastwood said, "Make my day!" How about making your own day by showing kindness to another individual and lifting them up!
Prior to being with Governor Sanford, a relative in my family had often said that I would never amount to anything! That is a dangerous message which can be played and replayed in the brain. And, if someone doesn't rescue us, that kind of message could cause a self fulfilling prophecy to take place because, after awhile, we begin believing it!
Because of his humility and interest in me, Governor Sanford sent a strong message to me: I do amount to something because I spent the entire afternoon with the Governor of North Carolina! WOW!
Governor Sanford is just one shining star of my life. Read about the others in my book.
Very truly yours,
Jim Hogsett, President/Founder; Worker Ministries and Writer for Guideposts Magazine