Jackson Progress-Argus

Ben Wright

Life is not simple. It is like a puzzle. In a 1,000-piece puzzle, all the pieces are so similar that at times the pieces have to be turned over to check if they really fit properly. If a piece is missing, then we are in frustrating trouble.

Life is similar. We cannot assume anything. Every aspect must be checked out, otherwise, things can go wrong. If we neglect the little things, like termites, they eat away silently at the fabric of our existence. Improper diets, lack of sleep, and other abuses may cause physical and psychological problems that may slip up on us. If we are in a state of denial, usually what is obvious to others, we do not see or want to see.

By not taking care of the small issues we cease to grow and develop morally and spiritually. Why is all this important?

The Great Wall of China is a good example. Ancient China built this wall that stretches for thousands of miles to ensure their security from foreign invaders. Yet, during the first hundred years after the wall was completed, China was invaded three times, not by going over or under the wall, but by bribing the guards. Thus, the enemy simply marched through the gates.

China spent all those years building a great wall of security, but they did not spend enough time building the integrity and character of the gate keepers.

My grandpa Wright taught me a saying that has helped me through the years. He stated, “Take care of the little things, and the big things will take care of themselves.”

Contrary to today’s thinking, I believe character is super important, along with honesty.

A preacher gave a sermon on honesty. The next day, she took a bus into town and, after taking a seat, noticed she was given too much change. She tried to convince herself that the extra money was a gift from God, but knew better.

Before getting off the bus, she handed the driver the extra money and said, “You made a mistake and gave me too much change.”

“That was no mistake,” said the driver with a smile. “I was in your church yesterday and heard your sermon on honesty. So this morning, I gave you a little test!”

People are listening, watching and testing. What will they see in us?

Have a good week.

Ben Wright is a former prison chaplain and is a longtime Jackson resident.