Where to from here?

Did you ever wonder how some people get to lead lives that seem, well to use the word, charmed?

You know the ones who are noticed for the smallest thing they do. Especially if it's something the society doesn't necessarily agree with.

How did they did they do it?

Frankly unless you're serious about doing what they do or gaining such a profile that your life is not your own anymore, then might I suggest try following the ones that I've come to call the "quiet achievers."

Having known quite a few it's become a regular habit to reflect on their lives, the things they overcame and what was the silent legacy they left.

Recently my brother and I were discussing our late stepfather. A quiet man. Thorough in everything he did and a great server of the community organisations he belonged to. In the conversation we shared some of the things we learned through working with him and how it has affected the way we do things now and see his influence in the process.

Now just over five years since his passing on the legacy of his diligence and hard work are apparent, not only from the work he did, but also from the respect people still speak of him with.

While some of his methods may seem outdated, what can never be dated was his attitude.

There are many memorable times that now serve as metaphors that came from his quiet wisdom, his wry humour and persistence in completing the job.

Now looking back at the time spent working with him and in later life simply sitting and listening to his life's story I realise that his passing has left a void, yet at the same time a respect for people who do what they do. Do it well and persist until the job is done. 

Not only was the job done, but as he said, do it once, do it right and it remains done.

It was a great lesson Dad.

In that process there was no need to rush and based on what he achieved in the last forty five years of his farming life (which he started at the age of thirteen) he created a viable farm, cared for his elderly parents and supported family and extended family.

In the end his legacy and dedication ensured that beneficiaries were well cared for and able to build on what he had started.

It is the kind of life that was well lived, but never openly edified.

So if there are quiet achievers among those that you know, acknowledge them, thank them and really take the time to get to know them.

Life is short and once they are gone all that's left are your thoughts and memories of them. Which is a very poor substitute for love and laughter.