With legendary coach John Wooden’s passing, I recently pored over the half a dozen of books about the great teacher from my library. I was looking for the principles, that dealt more with his personal philosophy and creed. I wanted to know the reasons for his tremendous influence. I stumbled upon the following story. I hope you like it half as much as I did.
When Johnny graduated from grade school, his father Joshua gave him a $2 bill and some advice. As long as you have this, you will never be broke. Years later, coach Wooden gave it to his son Jim. His father also gave him a card. On it was written the following creed:
Be true to yourself.
Help others.
Make each day your masterpiece.
Drink deeply from good books, (especially the Bible).
Make friendships a fine art.
Build a shelter against a rainy day.
Pray for guidance and count/give thanks for your blessings every day.
He smiled as only a proud father can and said: “Try and live up to these things Johnny.”
For 99 amazing years, he did.
In a candid and humble admission, coach Wooden says, “I would like to be able to tell you I lived up to dad’s creed, but I am more like the fellow who said:
I am not what I ought to be,
Not what I want to be,
Not what I am going to be,
But I am thankful I am better than I used to be.
As June unfolds, it demands a few questions:
What is your creed?
What will you give your children upon graduation?
How about a $2 bill and a card with your creed?
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What Is Your Creed?
by Mark Matteson on June 9, 2010 in Commentary
With legendary coach John Wooden’s passing, I recently pored over the half a dozen of books about the great teacher from my library. I was looking for the principles, that dealt more with his personal philosophy and creed. I wanted to know the reasons for his tremendous influence. I stumbled upon the following story. I hope you like it half as much as I did.
When Johnny graduated from grade school, his father Joshua gave him a $2 bill and some advice. As long as you have this, you will never be broke. Years later, coach Wooden gave it to his son Jim. His father also gave him a card. On it was written the following creed:
He smiled as only a proud father can and said: “Try and live up to these things Johnny.”
For 99 amazing years, he did.
In a candid and humble admission, coach Wooden says, “I would like to be able to tell you I lived up to dad’s creed, but I am more like the fellow who said:
As June unfolds, it demands a few questions:
What is your creed?
What will you give your children upon graduation?
How about a $2 bill and a card with your creed?
Tags: John Wooden