Behind the Badge
January 2006
Education is a life long process. Anyone who imagines that he (or she) knows everything is of all people most ignorant. Each of us learns something everyday (if nothing else, how not to do something). We are educated from many areas of life: daily circumstances, individuals, T.V., media, the people (good and bad) that we deal with. If we are not careful we will learn from the bad and gain only bad thoughts and bad habits.
Since we are going to be learning every day, it is wise to direct our study skills for spiritual profit and growth. Remember a man’s judgment is no better than his information. Beware of half-truths; you may have hold of the wrong half.
Goeth, the German philosopher said, “Never let a day pass without looking at some perfect work of art, hearing some great piece of music, and reading, in part, some great book.”
If we pay no attention to the good, we will pick up only the bad. By reading, studying and learning all of our lives, we will enhance and improve our whole being. How we use our opportunities, potential, time and energy—conscious of our Lord’s presence—will determine the quality of our life-, work, and rewards.
—Don Williams, Chaplain
Keep our officers (and their families) serving in the military in prayer.
-Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.
-It is the words that speak boldly of your intentions. And the actions which speak louder than the words.
-It is making the time when there is none. It is coming through time after time after time, year after year after year.
-Commitment is the stuff character is made of; the power to change the face of things.
-It is the daily triumph of integrity over skepticism.
-How does your commitment stack up? The test of your character is what it takes to stop you. Blessed is the man who knows how to make stepping-stones out of stumbling blocks.
If you think being meek is weak, try being meek for a week!!
(Take this quiz. It’s a real eye opener)
1.Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2.Name the last five Heissman trophy winners.
3.Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest
4.Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5.Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6.Name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners.
—How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.
—Here is another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1.List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2.Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3.Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4.Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5.Think of five people with whom you enjoy spending time.
6.Name half a dozen heroes whose stories have inspired you.
—Easier? The lesson? The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most certificates, the most money, or the most awards.
They are the ones who CARE.
This article is available for download for printing purposes. Please feel free to distribute it to your fellow law enforcement brothers and sisters!
